Three monoprinting methods for children of all ages.
By Andrea Mulder-Slater
Monoprinting is a process whereby only one print is pulled from the printing plate.
What You Need:
- Printmaking ink (for older kids – if you have it) or a water-based paint. (Acrylic or tempera).
- Paintbrushes.
- Sheets of plexiglass (approx 12″x12″) You can sometimes find plexiglass for next to nothing at your local lumber yard or hardware store. Just ask for the off-cuts they normally throw away. You can also use old garage sale signs (the plastic ones) for this activity.
OR
- Styrofoam trays (veggie or meat trays)
- Paper.
- A covered work area.
- Optional: Soft rubber brayer or small paint roller.
- Popsicle stick or pencil with eraser.
What You Do:
Method 1A

Image: lilyofthefield-heather.blogspot.com
- Using the brayer, roll ink out onto the plexiglass, covering it completely.
- Using the end of a pencil or a popsicle stick, draw an image on the plexiglass.
- Place paper on plexi and rub lightly.
- Peel away paper.
Method 1B
- Using the brayer, roll ink onto the plexiglass, covering it completely.
- Place paper over plexiglass.
- Using a pencil, draw an image on the paper.
- When you peel away the paper, the image will have transferred itself.
- This is very similar to using carbon paper.
Method 2
- Using your paintbrush, paint a design onto the plexiglass using as many or as few colours as you like. Work quickly … don’t let the paint dry!
- Place paper over the plexiglass and rub lightly with the palm of your hand.
- Peel away paper.
- Sign your work.
Method 3
- Prepare your paints. Start with primary colors (red, yellow and blue) and from there, mix our secondary colors (orange, violet and green).
- Using a pencil, “carve” lines into the foam (or leave the foam as it is).
- Begin adding paint to the printing plate.
- When the paint has been applied, lay a sheet of paper over the painted plate.
- Rub your hands over the paper, carefully.
- Lift the paper to reveal the completed print.