Hello - I teach marbling at a university and we are looking for a paper that would suit this instruction. Marbling requires paper that does not have a lot of sizing, can take multiple wettings - alum, in the bath with paints and then rinsing. A paper that "lays" well is the problem once alum applied - many become stiff and difficult to lay on the bath. This creates air pockets and become frustrating for students to get a good "print". It needs to have wet strength for hanging to dry. We also have to take into consideration the cost efficiency - larger sheets can be cut down, but each handling is time and labour cost. In my personal practice it isn't always a consideration but it can be for teaching. Any suggestions? Thanks so much.
We suggest using Masa, Arches MBM, Rives BFK and Stonehenge
Masa is a popular choice for marbling because it's lightweight, flexible, and handles repeated wetting well. It's also available in rolls, which can be helpful in a teaching environment where efficiency and custom sizing are important.
Arches MBM has a long history in decorative arts and is known for its wet strength and durability. Many marblers appreciate how it handles throughout the process.
Rives BFK is another option worth considering, particularly the lighter 180gsm weight. It offers good strength while remaining easier to handle than heavier printmaking papers. Rives BFK is considered to be a softer printmaking paper which should prevent air pockets when lifting.
Stonehenge is also available in rolls and may be worth testing if you're looking for a paper that balances performance with classroom practicality.
Since marbling methods, alum concentrations, and bath formulations can vary quite a bit, I'd recommend testing a few sheets to see which paper best fits your process and your students' needs.
Masa is a popular choice for marbling because it's lightweight, flexible, and handles repeated wetting well. It's also available in rolls, which can be helpful in a teaching environment where efficiency and custom sizing are important.
Arches MBM has a long history in decorative arts and is known for its wet strength and durability. Many marblers appreciate how it handles throughout the process.
Rives BFK is another option worth considering, particularly the lighter 180gsm weight. It offers good strength while remaining easier to handle than heavier printmaking papers. Rives BFK is considered to be a softer printmaking paper which should prevent air pockets when lifting.
Stonehenge is also available in rolls and may be worth testing if you're looking for a paper that balances performance with classroom practicality.
Since marbling methods, alum concentrations, and bath formulations can vary quite a bit, I'd recommend testing a few sheets to see which paper best fits your process and your students' needs.