Self-Teachings Notes (CLR Print)

• Pre-cut more paper than needed. You will most likely end up using the extras.



• Make sure when you do "time management" for your projects, you schedule extra time for days when you will be too tired to work; count in time for mistakes that will have you starting the project all over again.



• Mistakes are good. Don't stress out. Mistakes make you a better artist. Try again. Take note on how your project has changed and evolved from your prior mistake.



• Pandora Music is good for background while working.



• Your final product will most likely not be how you first envisioned. The spirit of it is still there. It's a better version of how you thought it would look like.



• Make sure you have the appropriate tools. When working with such a small size, I realized I could not be as detailed as I would have liked, with the etching style that is trademark of me. I needed smaller nibs, bigger canvas space.



• When working such a small size, make lines as simple as possible. Have extra nibs on hand. I broke one in the middle of the night the morning before the project should have been finished.



• Carving into lino blocks for hours is tiring.



• Take a printmaking class: Learn different methods, instead of the DIY style you know.



• Frames and matting are a saving grace for the aesthetics of the prints.



• My bench hook and bone folder rules.



• Allow yourself to leave your working space and go outside, be with friends, have a drink, take a breath of fresh air. Take a walk.



• Step back, take another look. Proceed.