This thread is developing into an interesting and informative discussion ,
in my book Creative Sunprinting Focal Press1980. I used a 5ml spoon as a
basic
unit for both for liquid and solid measure, it did raise a few questions
at editorial conference but I insisted and eventually when the book was
published
I received a number of compliments on how this method had simplified
chemical preparation.And subsequently over the years have used it in all my
teaching.
>A 5 ml spoon is easiest for measuring. You can get them with a 2.5 ml spoon at
the other end of the handle.<
Now to the general thrust of this thread, gum printing is both simple and
complex
each of us has their own favourite recipe, preferred choice of paper etc,method
of exposure, and developing procedure, when compared these systems may seem
contradictory, but as the Chinese say there are many paths to heaven not
just one.
The thing is it is the balance of all the constituents that is
important,each substrate will need its own mix ,if the substrate is
absorbent will need more size, and less pigment and gum than say a non
-absorbent base such as plastic, where the coat will have to be thicker
containing more pigment and a stiffer gum mixture, to get the same quality
as the absorbent one. The coating method and tools whether they be,
brush,roller, airbrush [not recommended ], buffing, will also have a
profound effect on the finished result ,as each coating method will give
differing results, laying down a thinner or thicker layer of emulsion,
dependent on the tool used and the manner of use.
With so many variables it is almost impossible to make a definitive
prognosis, so how does a beginner make progress, well slow and sure, there
are certain controllable factors, firstly chose of the substrate, if chosen
with care ,Judy chooses Rives BFK, Terry chooses Bockingford and Fabriano
5, I prefer Fabriano Artistico and my great friend David Scopick choice is
Lana aquerelle. any of these excellent bases can work very well if they are
properly balanced with the colloidal mixture.
A basic fact is that the pigment should be mixed so that the paper shows
though the coat, an important observation,as this is for the beginner a
major stumbling block.If in doubt use less pigment.Multiple printing is one
of the real joys of this process.So dont be worried if the first coat is a
bit thin.
There are really no rules, with patience and concentration anything is possible
As to Terry walking on water well I have seen him do a weeks master class in
Photogravure, and everybody in the class coming away with a print, except
for yours truly [ I am a slow learner ] as far as I am concerned that is
next to walking on water
pete