Materials:

• Plexiglass 
• Sandpaper
• Dishwashing Liquid
• Paper Towels
• Watercolor Paper
• Watercolor Paints
• Spray Bottle
• Rolling Pin

Step 1: To help the watercolor paint grip to the plexiglass, sand the surface of the plate until the shine is gone. 

Step 2: Apply a thin layer of dishwashing liquid (an alternative to gum arabic, which many people do not have at home), and allow it to dry onto the plate.

Step 3: Place your paper underneath the plate to guide how large your painting should be. 

Step 4: Paint the plate with watercolors! Try not to go too heavy on the water. 

Step 5: Once your painted design is complete, wait for it to dry while misting your watercolor paper with water. 

Step 6: Dab the damp paper with a towel until there is no more water sitting on top of the paper.

Step 7: Place the paper on top of the plate’s design in one quick motion. Make sure it lines up!

Step 8: Use the rolling pin to press the paint on the plate into the paper. Be careful not to rip or slide the paper across the plate. 

Step 9: Gently peel the paper off of the plate and allow it to dry.

Ideas to take your watercolor monotype to the next level:

• Dunk the paper underwater to see how it varies the final result of the print.
• Go back in with a brush and watercolor paints to add details. 
• Use the monoprint as a background for an original painting. Get creative!