Methyl salicilate transfer
Materials:
- arabic gum
- nitric acid
- methyl salicylate
- toner print from a laser printer or photocopier
- asphalt
- shellac
- rosin and talc
Toner-based photocopy or laser jet print transfer with methyl salicylate can be done without the haste that is needed for acetone transfer. Methyl salicylate, like acetone, dissolves toner particles and allows them to transfer onto the surface of the stone. Unlike acetone, methyl salicylate evaporates slower.
The stone should be well, finely grinded, dried and then put on the press set for printing.
Wipe a toner-based photocopy or laser jet print gently with a methyl salicylate and leave it until the toner gets glossy and can be easily removed from the paper (with a finger). Methyl salicylate has a characteristic menthol smell and works slowly, so you have to be patient. Too much salicylate can destroy the drawing, too little and it won’t transfer.
When the toner on the print becomes shiny, place the print face down on the stone and pull it under the press. The transfer can also be done manually (be careful – don’t move the print).
After removing the print from the stone, wait for the methyl salicylate to completely evaporate, wipe the drawing with rosin and talc and etch it depending on the drawing.
Wipe off the etching solution and dry the surface of the stone, then remove the drawing using acetone (turpentine may be not strong enough).
Rub the stone with shellac and asphalt, wait until the solvents evaporate, moisten and roll up the stone.
Second etching – depending on the drawing.