Discover the expressive and unpredictable qualities of Spit Bite Etching, a painterly printmaking technique that allows you to create soft and subtle tonal effects, organic textures, and beautifully atmospheric marks on a copper plate.
Unlike traditional line etching, spit bite uses a liquid mixture applied directly to areas of the plate, creating delicate washes and tonal variations. The result can range from subtle gradients and delicate textures to dramatic, expressive areas of light and dark.
In this workshop, you’ll be introduced to the fundamentals of spit bite etching and learn how to:
Prepare and work with an etching plate
Apply spit bite using brushes and different mark-making approaches
Create soft washes, gradients, and tonal areas
Combine spit bite with etched lines and other marks
Control the relationship between application time and tonal depth
Understand the etching and biting process
Ink and wipe your plate to bring out the tonal qualities
Print your finished plate using a professional etching press
One of the most exciting aspects of spit bite is its experimental nature. Instead of relying only on precise lines, you can paint directly onto the plate, allowing your brushwork and the etching process to become part of the final image.
Experiment with:
Brushstrokes · Washes · Gradients · Textures · Organic Forms · Layered Tones
Each plate develops its own character, making spit bite particularly interesting for artists who enjoy an expressive and less predictable approach to printmaking.
During the workshop, you'll create your own spit bite etching plate and prints, taking your design from plate preparation through etching, inking, wiping, and printing.
No previous etching experience is required, although some familiarity with basic printmaking processes can be helpful.
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