How a Piece of Work Evolves: From Sketch to Print
Every artwork in the studio begins with a moment of observation.
Whether I’m sitting with a still life set up in my home studio or cycling through the countryside, I start by sketching what I see — capturing shapes, light, and character in simple pencil lines. These initial sketches are the foundation of my creative process.
From Observation to Design
Those first drawings are often reworked in watercolour. This helps me experiment with colour palettes and plan the layers for my multi-plate and reduction lino prints — the techniques I love most in printmaking. Brimham Rocks Original Black And White Handmade Linocut Print
By revisiting the sketch at this stage, I can refine the composition, emphasise texture, and build a sense of depth that comes through in the final print.
Once a design has been transferred onto my lino by reversing the image and tracing it, I then outline my design in permanent marker. Sometimes I will stain my lino to make it easier to see which parts have been carved. And now, my favourite part of lino printing: the carving process, begins. By this point, I have already determined which areas will be removed and which will remain in relief. (Remember, the raised areas are the parts that take the ink and will be printed. the carved away areas will remain uncoloured). However, it is the marks made with a variety of tools that truly define the design and give it a distinctive, personal quality and style. (Remember, the raised areas are the parts that take the ink and will be printed. the carved away areas will remain uncoloured).
Discovering Collage & Creative Chance
Whilst exploring new ways of working, I stumbled upon collage almost by accident. After a long day in the studio cleaning plates and brayers, I noticed the patterned residues left on scrap paper — unexpected textures and colours that felt full of life.
Instead of discarding them, I started saving these textured papers in a folder labelled “Later”. Over time, these fragments became the basis for collage pieces inspired by vintage ceramics in my collection and seasonal flowers — a joyful new direction in my work.Still Life with Cone Collage Print
Final Prints & Giclée Editions
These collages are available as high-quality giclée prints in a range of sizes — perfect for home interiors or as thoughtful gifts. Each piece tells its own story, is carefully constructed made entirely from papers created from cleaning off my printmaking tools.Sunflowers in Vintage Jug Collage Print – Paper Art Still Life
You can view them in my shop. Simply click on the picture or follow the link below.
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For further information contact Dehlia and follow @themerryweatherartist on Instagram and Facebook
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