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The art of risograph printing

May 11, 2024by Christine Meiler

Photo: Christine Meiler

Discovering the unique charm of risograph printing in a hands-on workshop

Recently, I had the opportunity to dive deep into the world of Risograph printing at a workshop, and it was nothing short of eye-opening. For those unfamiliar, Risograph (or Riso) printing is a unique, eco-friendly process that combines elements of screen printing and digital technology. The result? A vibrant, tactile print with a slightly imperfect, but highly captivating aesthetic. It’s an art form that relies on soy-based inks and an analog printer that layers color one at a time. The process, while efficient, still carries the handmade charm of traditional printing methods. The workshop not only provided hands-on experience with the machine but also showcased the process’s creative potential for art prints.

Photo: Christine Meiler

What stood out to me the most during the workshop was the spontaneity of the process. Unlike traditional digital printing, Riso allows for happy accidents — slight misalignments, overlapping colors, and unique textures. Each print feels like a one-of-a-kind creation. Plus, the vibrant hues that the Riso printer produces are unlike anything you'd typically see from standard printers. Whether you're printing a series of posters or experimenting with zine layouts, Riso printing offers a fresh approach to creative projects that is both sustainable and full of character. It's a process worth exploring, and I can’t wait to incorporate this technique into my own work moving forward.