Akua Carborundum Gel for Platemaking is used to create collagraph printmaking plates. This ready-to-use platemaking gel offers a reliable medium that delivers fine, sharp detail and a uniquely textured surface that yields rich, velvety areas of colour. Printmakers have been experimenting with methods for making carborundum prints for decades. Akua Carborundum Gel improves results by offering a formulation that is consistent and reliable. Carborundum Gel is performance-tested, so printmakers can rely on the consistency of this platemaking medium from start to finish. As a result, prints will be strong and vivid, every time.

The platemaking gel is made from grit (Carborundum) and acrylic medium. Once the medium is dried, it holds fine details and textures. The plate can be inked intaglio or relief and printed with an intaglio press.

What is Carborundum Print/Platemaking?

Carborundum printmaking is a collagraph process in which the image is created directly on the plate by applying an abrasive grit (Carborundum) mixed with an acrylic medium or glue. Once dried, it forms areas of texture or line which is then inked intaglio, relief or both. The plate is printed with an etching press in the same manner as other printmaking plates. Since the Carborundum mixture is built up on the plate, the paper embosses when going through the press creating a rich, dense surface. The plates can be printed many times

What is Collagraph printmaking? Collagraphy is a really versatile printing process in which a textured plate is inked up and put through a press. Different textures hold varying amounts. of ink and print different tones. Anything with a low relief texture can be stuck down and used: wallpaper, leaves, fabrics, tapes and threads etc.

View the Carborundum Platemaking Gel Instruction Guide

View our other Akua products:

Akua Professional Printmaking Ink Starter Set – Speedball

Akua Intaglio Release Agent – Speedball

Akua Intaglio Inks – Speedball

Akua Blending Medium – Speedball

Akua Intaglio Transparent Base – Speedball

Akua Intaglio Inks – Speedball

Akua Wiping Fabric – Speedball