Sgrafitto
Sgrafitto is an etching technique that uses a pointed tool to scratch through a covered surface to show the art work beneath it.
Materials:
Wax crayons (Do not use black)
India ink or back poster paint
Pointed tool for etching such as a knitting needle or a toothpick
Cardboard or mat board
Brush
- Draw and color various abstract shapes on the cardboard or mat board. Make sure to use a heavy hand and leave a thick layer of wax crayon.
- Paint the cardboard or mat board with India ink or black poster paint. Allow the surface to dry completely. If the wax crayons show through, you need a second coat of paint or ink. Allow this coat to dry.
- Select the pointed tool you will use. You can experiment with different tools on a scrap of cardboard and then decide which one is best for your work of art.
- Have an image or design in mind or draw one on sketch paper first. Etch the design directly on the painted cardboard or mat board using various strokes: long, short, or circular going in various directions: horizontal, vertical or diagonal. Etch deeply enough to penetrate the first layer of ink or poster paint.
- Frame the Sgrafitto and don’t forget to etch your name in the lower right-hand corner.
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