Akua Intaglio Inks

Wharepuke Print Studio is pleased to supply Akua Inks

Akua Intaglio Instructions

Ink Consistency

Akua Intaglio has a buttery consistancy. It never hardens or forms a skin in the container when left uncovered, making it much more long lasting than traditional inks. An Oil Converter can be added if a stiffer consistency is desired. Separation can occurs, therefore mixing is necessary before using. Place the ink knife directly in the ink container and stir. Mix well from the bottom of the container to the top. The ink consistency varies depending upon the pigment and temperature conditions. Ink will be stiffer when cold and looser when warm.

When trying Akua Intaglio for the first time, we recommend using it right from the jar without modification. However, if a stiffer consistency is desired, it is best to use the Oil Converter. Before mixing, work the Oil Converter with the ink knife till it’s smooth.

Then add Akua Intaglio Ink into the Oil Converter. Start with small amounts until the desired thickness is achieved. To Loosen ink, work ink with an ink knife under a warm lamp, hair dryer, or a hot plate set a very low temperature

Mixing Colors

Create new colors by mixing Akua Intaglio inks with one another using an ink knife, or by adding Akua Kolor into Akua Intaglio. Akua Kolor is so highly concentrated that a few drops added to the same Akua Intaglio color will enrich it. Note: Akua Intaglio will temporarily thicken when Akua Kolor is added to it.

Wiping the plate

Akua Intaglio is very soft ink. It applies and wipes off the plate much easier and quicker than oil-based inks. Therefore, at first there may be a tendency to remove too much ink. For best results, use cheesecloth, or very soft tarlatan to wipe the surface of the plate. Roll the cheesecloth or soft tarlatan into a large ball shape. Follow through with a paper wipe if necessary. Be careful not to press your fingers into the inked surface of the plate. Since the ink is soft, it will transfer fingerprint impressions easily.

Printing on Paper

Akua Intaglio ink prints well on most standard printmaking papers. We suggest conducting a test by printing the same plate twice. Make one print on dry paper and another print on dampened paper. Your results may depend upon individual plate characteristics and the type of paper used. Printing on dry paper offers higher contrast prints. It also eliminates the possibility of paper shrinkage making it ideal for printing multi-registered plates or combining prints with digital ink jet or letterpress images. Increase the press pressure and use soft printmaking papers when printing on dry paper. If the print results are blotchy or inconsistent it may be necessary to dampen the paper. Printing on damp paper may offer greater tonal values and more consistent print results for aquatints. Soak the paper for 30 seconds and blot thoroughly before using.

Re-Soaking Prints

Akua Intaglio ink is permanent. If necessary, prints may be placed in a tray of water immediately after printing. Do not soak prints too long and be careful not to touch the image while wet.

Print Drying Times

Akua Intaglio ink does not contain dryers. Typically a shallow bitten plate will take 24 hours to dry. Deeply bitten plates may take 2 weeks or longer. Drying time may also depend upon paper absorbency, climate, and the amount of ink applied. Glossy or coated papers are not reliable.

Cleaning Up

First, clean all inky surfaces, rollers, and plates with a dry rag. Use 1 part liquid dish detergent to 20 parts water for cleaning up any remaining ink residue. Use a little vinegar diluted with water to clean any soap build up if necessary

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