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Basic Concept:
Marbling is a monoprinting process which involves manipulating paint that is
floated on the surface of a thickened water solution called a size.
Ox gall is bile from the gall bladder of a cow and it does two
things. First, it enables the paint to resist the surface tension of the
size and thus to float. Second, it surrounds each droplet of color so
that it can't blend with a second color to form a third.
Once the paints are diluted with water ox gall
is added drop by drop until the colors float and spread out into
circles.
Basic Procedure:
- A stylus is used to stir the floating colors if desired. Various
combs and rakes may also be run through the colors to manipulate the
colors into more intricate patterns or pictures.
- With all the desired colors of paint on the surface, use a toothpick,
a comb or straws, etc. to carefully create swirls and design
patterns. You can create "negative" areas in the design
by placing soapy water on the surface with an eye-dropper or
by sprinkling it on. Use 1/8 teaspoon of liquid soap to 1/2 cup
of water. Use this like a "clear paint" in your designs.
Dip a whisk or a bundle of broom straws to flick drops onto the
surface. The droplets give a different effect.
- The "size" can be used over and over again. It can be kept for 3 to 4 days
at room temperature before it begins to mold and must be discarded.
- To keep it longer, refrigerate. (Mark and tape the container clearly so it
is not eaten).
- Warm it to room temperature before using. If the "size" has been sitting a
while, clear the surface of tension with newspaper before using.
- The size can be re-used for about a week. Cover or refrigerate to keep.
Size does deteriorate faster in warm weather. Starch lasts much longer-for
months.
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