This is such a cool technique! I don’t know if you’ve ever tried to make a monotype on a piece of plexi or metal, but it’s hard to transfer the image if the paper isn’t very absorbent. But if you didn’t get your paper dry enough, the the impression will be blotchy or completely blurred. Plus, the traditional monotypes are made with oil paint or oil-based ink, which are dangerous to clean up and dispose of, depending on whether or not you use turpentine.
Linda Germain is pulling beautiful prints from plates made of unflavored gelatin. What I love about this technique, is the ease with which she transfers the ink from the plate to the paper. And, because of the gelatin, you have to use water based pigments, like water colors or gauche. You can probably use acrylic, if you work quickly, and don’t let it dry.
Check out Linda’s prints at http://www.linda-germain.com/index.html.
I can’t wait to try this once all the holiday food is out of my fridge!