Riso Art: A Creative’s Guide to Mastering Risography

by Vivian Toh

A practical guide to Risograph printing for anyone who wants to broaden their printing horizons and be inspired by the wide variety of possibilities offered by this relatively easy-to-use and fascinating technique. 
In recent years risography has captured the attention of printers and artists, especially in independent and self-publishing circles, given the technical and visual qualities it offers. Varied and vivid spot colors, the warmth of the finishes, and occasional imperfections in uniformity and register are just some of these attractive features. The book begins by giving readers a brief history of the Risograph while outlining the basic principles of the printing process, including the equipment, tools and materials needed to get started. Designed mainly for high-volume photocopying and printing, Risographs are far less expensive than conventional photocopy machines and laser or ink printers. Rich in illustrations, pictures, detailed instructions and infographics, this practical guide to Risograph printing will teach readers how to set up a Risograph, how to prepare files to print, how to make overprints and knockouts, how to choose paper, how to handle freshly printed works, what ink to use and about any additional equipment they will need to become a Riso master. An ideal primer for novice users of a Riso printer, readers will also learn how to apply artistic printing techniques that will allow them to print with brighter, more expressive, saturated colors that, unlike photocopy ink, do not fade over time. The book also includes profiles of notable printers, with one featured work of Riso art and the printing technique used.  In addition to examples of printed products, readers will find works from contributing print shops and information about design studios and artists from around the world. The book will broaden the reader’s printing horizons and illustrate the extensive variety of possibilities offered by this relatively straightforward technique, inspiring them through the prints of others to create their own riso art.

Genres: Design, Nonfiction

328 pages, Paperback

Published October 10, 2023

Reviews

[jack · Rating 4 out of 5]

good guide for inspo!!! would have loved a color layering chart tho 💔

[Melanie · Rating 4 out of 5]

I’ve become kind of obsessed with risograph printing after learning that I have access to a Riso printer at work (and a colleague who is patient enough to help me learn how to use it). This is a great book for inspiration, as well as a bit of history and a look at the current Riso community of studios and artists.

[Peacefulbookery · Rating 5 out of 5]

Beautiful book, but it's more focused on featuring riso artists than discussing the minutiae of actual print techniques. I wouldn't recommend it for riso artists themselves, unless they're looking for inspiration over process.

[Zareen · Rating 4 out of 5]

a nice intro to riso printing :)

[Beline Xu · Rating 5 out of 5]

should i open my own riso printing studio too 🤔