Eco-Friendly Printmaking: How I Reduce Waste and Work Sustainably in the Studio
As an artist, I’m passionate about creating beautiful work, but I’m equally committed to practicing in a way that respects the planet. Printmaking - like many art forms - can have an environmental impact, but by being mindful and adopting eco-friendly practices, it’s possible to create sustainably.
Here’s how I reduce waste and prioritise sustainability in my studio.
1. Choosing Sustainable Materials
Sustainability begins with the materials I use. Whenever possible, I choose supplies that are either recycled, recyclable, or made from sustainable sources.
Paper: I use high-quality, acid-free paper from brands that prioritise environmentally friendly practices. Their pulps are sourced from sustainable sources (ensuring no rainforests are harmed in making the paper), and the cotton linters are a by-product from the textile industry.
Plates: Copper plates, essential for mezzotint, are incredibly durable. When they’ve reached the end of their life, copper can also be recycled.
2. Minimizing Waste in the Studio
Printmaking can be wasteful if you’re not careful, but small changes in your practice can make a big difference.
Ink Management: I carefully measure out the ink I need for each project to avoid excess. Leftover ink is stored properly to prevent drying out, extending its life as long as possible.
Paper Scraps: I save offcuts and scraps from larger sheets for test prints, small editions, and even handmade note cards.
Recycling: Any unused paper, ink containers, and other materials that can’t be reused are recycled wherever possible.
3. Using Non-Toxic Inks and Cleaners
Traditional printmaking often relies on harsh chemicals, but I’ve made the switch to safer, non-toxic alternatives.
Inks: I use Charbonnel F66 ink which is 100% natural and non toxic. Every colour is highly pigmented, which means it can deliver impressive covering power even after dilution.
Cleaning Solutions: Where possible, I clean my tools and plates with vegetable oil or other non-toxic cleaners, followed by a natural soap.
4. Energy Efficiency in the Studio
Running a studio requires energy, but I’ve made efforts to reduce my footprint wherever I can.
Natural Light: I’ve set up my studio to maximize natural light, reducing the need for artificial lighting during the day.
Eco-Friendly Equipment: My printing press and other tools are manual, requiring no electricity. This not only saves energy but also connects me more closely to the physical process of printmaking.
5. Recycling and Repurposing Materials
One of my favourite ways to stay sustainable is by repurposing materials.
Packaging: When shipping prints, I reuse packaging materials whenever possible, opting for recyclable or compostable alternatives.'
Inking accessories: I use recycled materials in my studio for cleaning rags, and card for inking and handling paper
6. Supporting Sustainable Practices in the Art World
Sustainability isn’t just about what I do in my studio - it is also about supporting the broader shift toward eco-friendly practices in the art community. I always try to source high quality materials from companies with ethical and sustainable values and share knowledge with other artists about reducing waste.
Why Sustainability Matters in Printmaking
Art is a reflection of the world around us, and it’s our responsibility to care for that world. Sustainable practices don’t just reduce our environmental impact—they also encourage mindfulness in the creative process. By making conscious choices, I can create art that not only inspires but also aligns with my personal values.
Final Thoughts
Eco-friendly printmaking is always an ongoing journey, and I’m always looking for new ways to improve. Whether it’s reducing waste, switching to safer materials, or simply rethinking how I approach my work, every step makes a difference.
I hope this inspires you to think about sustainability in your own creative practice—or to support artists who prioritise eco-friendly methods.