Plate-backing resist Lascaux

Composition
Based on acrylic copolymer

Lascaux Plate-backing resist has been specially designed as part of the acrylic-resist etching system. This new generation acid resist is painted onto the back and the edges of etching plates to protect the metal from the action of the mordant.

Properties
Lascaux Plate-backing resist is water-soluble, ready to use, non-toxic and suitable for use on copper, brass, zinc, steel and aluminium. This red coloured resist is highly acid-resistant, durable and scratch-resistant. It may be used on unbitten or previously etched (e.g. aquatint, deep open bite) and is compatible with the other Lascaux resists and photopolymer resists. The resist may also be used to create a variety of effects on collagraph plates.

Directions
Plates should be prepared, grained, degreased and dried before the Plate-backing resist is applied by brush (follow the detailed information provided in the technical sheet for Lascaux Hard resist). After the first application of resist has been dried a second coat may be applied.

Drying the resist:
The plate can be laid flat to dry naturally or dried with a warm air fan in a horizontal drying cabinet. The resist becomes touch dry quickly and when it is fully dry the plate may be etched.

Etching:

Plates should etched following the detailed information provided in the technical sheet for Lascaux Hard resist.

Resist removal:
The resist is water-soluble and can be cleaned from brushes, tools, palettes, plates and surfaces with warm soapy water before it dries. Dried resist can be removed with Lascaux Remover (follow the information provided in the technical sheet for Lascaux Hard resist or Lascaux Remover).

More information
This product has been developed in collaboration with the printmakers Robert Adam and Carol Robertson who have been researching and teaching safer printmaking methods since 1990.