Gilsonite (Asphaltum) as pigment for etching inks

[freedda]

I have been using Natural pigment powers as a basis for coloring etching inks, adding it to my ink "base" (essentially ink without the color). I have had mixed success, so pigments working wonderfully for this, others not so much (see below).

I'm wondering about Gilsonite (Asphaltum). In the printmaking world a product called Asphaltum is used in a ground to control the etching process.

So, I'm wondering if Gilsonite (Asphaltum) will also work as a pigment powder to create a colored etching ink? (I'm thinking that the pigment sold here is different than the product used as a ground in etching.)


As an aside, regarding my experiments in making etching inks: Vincenza White gives a wonderful warm toned color, but has some larger particles in it, so the ink is a bit gritty and can scratch plates; the raw green umber also gives a wonderful color but is really hard to wipe, almost acting like a clay. I've had good success with the earth greens (Nicosia, Cypress, etc) and also some of the reds, like Ercolano.)


Best, David

[George O'Hanlon]

So, I'm wondering if Gilsonite (Asphaltum) will also work as a pigment powder to create a colored etching ink? (I'm thinking that the pigment sold here is different than the product used as a ground in etching.)

Typically, asphaltum is sold to the printing trade as a preparation of various hydrocarbons (pitch) melted in linseed oil and solvent or solvent alone. This can also be accomplished with gilsonite. Please see the posting in the Pigment forum regarding gilsonite and asphaltum for more information.