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Risograph Information: Home

Williams Librarian Trading Cards 2022 - 2023

Welcome!

Curious about risograph printing? You've come to the right place! Read on to learn more about the process of printing using a risograph, and how this unique print technology inspired this year's trading cards.

What makes Risograph printing so special?

Prints designed for risograph printing will often overlap two or more colors to create a new color. This overlap often occurs accidentally, as images become misaligned during the printing process. These imperfections add to the charm of prints created with a risograph.

 

What is Risograph Printing? How does it work?

Risograph or "riso" printing works by transferring an image onto a thin stencil, called a master. This printing process is similar to screen-printing in the sense that ink is pushed through a prepared stencil. Once a master is made, it is applied to a drum, which holds the ink tubes. Most risograph machines hold two ink drums, making it possible to print two ink colors at one time. The ink drums are housed inside a machine that looks and works like a traditional photocopier. As a result, the Risograph can print at a very high speed, making it ideal for printing in large quantities.

Content Note

This guide reuses content from St. Edward's University's Risograph Lab: Guide to Printing

Risograph in Action