Surface Design: Laser Engraving

We were tasked with using our surface design studies to develop patterns for engraving on wood. Students where given free rein on what patterns to implement and were encouraged to take the project in any direction. I've decided to utilize this time to create a wood block pattern that I could stamp on to a paper and create a decorative pattern.

As seen above the initial engraving was done on a basswood panel cut to a 4" x 4" square to be used as the template for the prints. The laser-engraving left a residue on the wood, At first I thought about clearing it with soapy water but decided to leave it so its pores would remain sealed. It saved me time as I no longer needed to apply a layer of enamel on the wood-block to seal it for the printing process.

Finally, using a brayer I was able to apply black acrylic ink on the pattern and use it to stamp out the design on paper.

I used the pattern to create paper folded birds inspired by the stripes of a Black and White Warbler. The final result as seen below the paper birds have rotund patterns creating an illusion of a curvy and plump.

Source: Lisa De Leon

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