The Rub and a Proof

a scan of my polished stone used to rub the printing paper over the inked linoleum block

Bananas, artist's proof, water-based archival ink on Fabriano paper, 4 x 3 inch image, 6.75 x 4.5 inch paper

I missed my polished stone in the photograph of my printing mess. I think it's my favorite part of this process. It's only about 1.5 inches across and is of very little value by any other measure. But I can't imagine making prints without its magic now. It fits perfectly in my hand and creates just the right amount of embossing with the paper and the linoleum. The timing, I'm sure, also adds to its appeal. All of the printing elements - designed, carved and gathered - come together when the rock is in my hand.