Ok, so I produced 30 pieces of 28x40 prints using German etching for an exhibition. I chose german etching because the soft gentle textured surface, the strength given by the weight of the paper, and nicely hand deckled edges suited the images and client's concept perfectly. They look magnificent under proper gallery lighting and the character of the paper gave a feeling of flow and continuity to the body of work.
BUT
The printing phase was a total nightmare cuz the paper FLAKES LIKE CRAZY. I'm sure you guys know what I'm talking about.. Imagine after every image is printed, I'd find tiny "holes" here and there, or some fibers half sticking out, carrying along with it the pigment that was supposed to be there... UGHHHH.
Yes I do minor touchups with the PITT pigment pens but a lot of them holes have very light pastel colors that are practically irreparable.
And yes I also tried the light brushing of the unprinted surface with cotton gloved hand. That did cut down a few more holes but all I need is 1 single damn hole in a prominent area which is irreparable to drive me to tear the entire print.
I'm those type that destroys all imperfect prints, so this issues has cost me at least more than half a roll of wasted paper, not to mention ink.
Tonight I'm gonna make about 10 more of those prints for another project and i'm dreading it already.
will probably scour the net for white/black/gray/rainbow magic rituals to guard against paper flaking before i get down to it.