Luminous Landscape Forum

Raw & Post Processing, Printing => Printing: Printers, Papers and Inks => Topic started by: decasso on October 21, 2009, 03:18:20 pm

Title: Adding Title and Signature
Post by: decasso on October 21, 2009, 03:18:20 pm

I need to frame a handful of prints for an upcoming show.  I typically title and sign my prints below the image and mat such that the title and signature are showing.  I do most of my printing onto rag paper and enjoy using a light pencil for the title and signature.  But, I am using Museo silver rag for this show.  Are micron pens my best option?  Does anyone know of a softer look that approaches the look of pencil (or a pencil that will write on silver rag)?  

Thanks very much for any advice!

Title: Adding Title and Signature
Post by: Paul Sumi on October 21, 2009, 05:09:33 pm

The problem with most ink pens and gloss prints is that the ink does not "dry" and adhere to the paper surface.  I haven't tried Micron pens yet, but I have tested, experimentally, the Uniball 207 pen -- the sort used to write checks and touted to be proof against check-washing.

I'm sure it is not archival but after drying for 24 hours the 207's ink does not smudge.  It is significantly darker than a pencil, though (and I also prefer the look of the latter).

Paul

Title: Adding Title and Signature
Post by: KeithR on October 21, 2009, 06:04:04 pm

I have used the Micon(03)pens on my prints and have not had a problem smearing, and I don't print on matte papers. I do allow a few minutes before I slide them into sleeves or mounting, but no problems. If your concerned, take a small sample of your paper into an art store and try it out. I know that where I got mine, they had a pad set out so you could try them out.

Title: Adding Title and Signature
Post by: bill t. on October 21, 2009, 06:34:08 pm

Just tried my old standby Pentel Sunburst Metallic Medium Gel Pen on an old Silver Rag print and it flowed on beautifully and far more smoothly than the Microns.  Unfortunately it only comes in Silver, Gold, Black and several pretty gross colors.  But it's the only pen I know that allows a natural looking signature on rough or bumpy surfaces, even canvas.  It is somewhat less hard-edged than the Microns and doesn't bleed over time.  About the same width as Micron 05.

Title: Adding Title and Signature
Post by: decasso on October 21, 2009, 07:53:12 pm

Thanks very much for the helpful replies.  I think I'll try to get my hands on a pentel sunburst and compare it to my micron pens.  I also have to adjust my mindset away from the subtle look of pencil.

Many thanks to each of you,
Deb

Title: Adding Title and Signature
Post by: bill t. on October 21, 2009, 09:03:58 pm

You can also sign the print with a pen, then cut a pencil signed matte that covers that signature.  Note on the back of the piece that both print and matte are signed.  Or you can sign right on the image, gasp!

Title: Adding Title and Signature
Post by: neile on October 21, 2009, 11:26:44 pm

I sign with a fine-point Sharpie which works reasonably well on coated baryta papers like Ilford GFS and Hahnemuhle FineArt Baryta. I frame so the mat covers the signature, then I sign the mat in pencil as well.

Neil