My printmaking library

Introduction to my printmaking library

When I started printmaking, I was curious about the process and the different printing methods, relief, intaglio, lithography and screen printing.  Although I focus on the reduction method of relief printing, I enjoy learning about processes and ‘how’ this artform is created. 

This curiosity led me to research into what books were available, books that explained the methods and showed photographs of the process.  Below is a brief description of the books I own.

Books for Beginners

Printmaking for Beginners by Jane Stobart 

This is the oldest book I own, and it is a comprehensive introduction into printmaking.  It explains the processes clearly and offers guidance on ‘how’ you could create prints.  It is more of a general overview than a detailed manual, but a helpful book for beginners.

The Printmaking Ideas Book by Frances Stanfield & Lucy McGeown

It is a small book where each page shows a visual of a printmaking style.  It includes brief descriptions of techniques and relevant artists working in those methods.  Consider this book more of a visual springboard for future research.

Practical Printmaking; The complete guide to the latest techniques, tools and materials Edited by Louise Woods

You can find some great second-hand books online and this is one of them.  First published in 2003, It’s well written with clear instructions and plenty of photographs.  It also has advice about tools and materials you’ll need.  Another general overview.

Specialist Printmaking Guides

Linocut and Reduction Printmaking by Laura Boswell

I love this book.  Laura was one of the first artists I found who did reduction printmaking, and I was drawn to her work as she also prints landscapes. Her art is beautiful, and her YouTube channel has been very helpful in understanding printing techniques.

This book is comprehensive, clearly explaining the materials, tools and process with excellent visuals to help support your understanding.

Paper Lithography by Sue Brown

I discovered this book in Waterstone’s whilst browsing.  I wanted to try a different type of print which I could do at home and utilise materials I already owned.

It includes step-by-step guide photographs alongside written instructions.  Despite my own unsuccessful attempts (I’ll revisit later), this is a good instructional guide.

Printmaking A complete Guide to Materials & Processes 2nd Ed. by Bill Fick & Beth Grabowski

This is my encyclopaedia of printmaking, (and a foundational book).  It includes every method and type of print you can think of, with a glossary section that’s useful for terminology.  I use this as a reference book.

How to Identify Prints by Bamber Gascoigne

It never occurred to me there would be a book about identifying prints, but I found this gem of a book in a charity store for £2! 

First published in 1986, it’s written from a historical perspective in a more academic tone.  If you remember Bamber Gascoigne as the presenter of University Challenge, you’ll recognise his voice.

Other published literature

Pressing Matters magazine

Alongside Printmaking Today, I consider Pressing Matters the premier magazine dedicated to printmaking in the UK. Beautifully edited, full of artists profiles and interviews.  It is a great way to discover new printmakers and find inspiration.

Jackson’s Art Paper Guide 2021

Although I don’t think this is sold on their website anymore, this publication is my go-to guide.  When I started printmaking, I found researching paper online overwhelming.  This condensed all I needed to know in one useful resource.  Some papers they’ve listed may no longer be available, but like the Fick & Grabowski book, I find this an invaluable source of information and reference guide.

This is not an exhaustive list, and my library will continue to grow over time, but these books and magazines form the foundation of my printmaking journey.  From beginner guides to specialist references, these have helped shape my understanding of the artform and continue to inspire me.

What printmaking books or magazines have you found helpful and provide inspiration? Share your comments below, I’d love to discover new resources.

You can read about my introduction to printmaking in my first blog here.

You can find a range of printmaking books including; Printmaking A Complete Guide to Materials & Processes, from websites such as Intaglio Printmaker