1) I have so many other materials I neglected for a long time that have resurfaced now that I have my own studio and time to experiment.
2) I freely admit to being on the the cheap side of thrifty and want to conserve money for the many other projects we have on the go here.
3) I'd like to research and plan out what to do/make before I invest. I've been bookmarking sites and listening to what others have to say about materials, brands & techniques for now.
A few months ago I read about Kimi Kobashi's mail art exchange in which she created a stamp out of a wine cork. It sounded like the perfect way to play with custom printmaking in an inexpensive way. As luck would have it, we usually have an, uh, ample supply of wine corks with renewing resources. (Read: we often love a nice glass of red wine.)
I've created four stamps so far with plans for more. I've been dabbling with techniques in my sketchbook and added some stamps into a larger piece I'm working on.
I love the rough texture they produce. I also love that if I muck it up I can always grab another one and begin carving again without feeling badly for wasting expensive material.
While I'm in the mood to reminisce about my college years and printmaking, perhaps I'll dig out some work and post it. Stay tuned...
... J
