Hello, I noticed that many antique prints are on thin, bright white paper. What are some good modern equivalents to the paper used for engravings in Europe in the 15th and 16th centuries? Thank you.
If you're looking for a modern paper that has similar properties to the thin, bright white paper used for engravings in Europe in the 15th and 16th centuries, there are a few options:
Wove paper: Wove paper is a type of paper that has a uniform surface with a smooth finish. It is made by pressing the paper pulp against a wire mesh, which creates a uniform texture. Wove paper is often used for printing because it has a consistent surface that is ideal for reproducing fine details. An excellent wove paper is this one from Arches: https://legionpaper.com/arches-text/
Japanese paper: Japanese paper, also known as "washi," is a type of handmade paper that is known for its thinness and strength. It is often used for printing because it has a smooth surface that is ideal for reproducing fine details, and it is also durable enough to withstand the printing process. Here are some of our Japanese Papers: https://legionpaper.com/japanese-papers
We've also curated a range of papers that are ideal for engraving. You can find these papers here: https://legionpaper.com/applications/intaglio.html
All of these types of paper can be found in a bright white color that is similar to the paper used for engravings in Europe in the 15th and 16th centuries. However, it's worth noting that modern papermaking techniques have evolved since then, so it's unlikely that any modern paper will be an exact replica of the antique paper.
Thank you for the information. I just printed an edition on Rives lightweight (white) and it was perfect for dampening and strong under pressure. Is there a similar thin wove paper that is a brighter white? How do you dampen washi without it falling apart due to less sizing?
Although not really a wove paper in the traditional sense you might want to try Somerset radiant white: https://legionpaper.com/somerset-book/
In regards to dampening washi - you can prepare a dampening solution by mixing distilled water with a small amount of methyl cellulose or wheat starch paste. Both of these substances are gentle and will not damage the paper.
Use a spray bottle to spray the dampening solution onto the paper, which is a gentle way to moisten it evenly without applying too much water. Hold the spray bottle several inches away from the paper and mist the surface lightly.
Once the washi paper is dampened, place it between two sheets of blotting paper and gently press down to remove any excess moisture.
Wove paper: Wove paper is a type of paper that has a uniform surface with a smooth finish. It is made by pressing the paper pulp against a wire mesh, which creates a uniform texture. Wove paper is often used for printing because it has a consistent surface that is ideal for reproducing fine details.
An excellent wove paper is this one from Arches:
https://legionpaper.com/arches-text/
Japanese paper: Japanese paper, also known as "washi," is a type of handmade paper that is known for its thinness and strength. It is often used for printing because it has a smooth surface that is ideal for reproducing fine details, and it is also durable enough to withstand the printing process.
Here are some of our Japanese Papers:
https://legionpaper.com/japanese-papers
We've also curated a range of papers that are ideal for engraving. You can find these papers here:
https://legionpaper.com/applications/intaglio.html
All of these types of paper can be found in a bright white color that is similar to the paper used for engravings in Europe in the 15th and 16th centuries. However, it's worth noting that modern papermaking techniques have evolved since then, so it's unlikely that any modern paper will be an exact replica of the antique paper.
https://legionpaper.com/somerset-book/
In regards to dampening washi - you can prepare a dampening solution by mixing distilled water with a small amount of methyl cellulose or wheat starch paste. Both of these substances are gentle and will not damage the paper.
Use a spray bottle to spray the dampening solution onto the paper, which is a gentle way to moisten it evenly without applying too much water. Hold the spray bottle several inches away from the paper and mist the surface lightly.
Once the washi paper is dampened, place it between two sheets of blotting paper and gently press down to remove any excess moisture.