Which printmaking technique creates effects that look like ink or watercolor washes?

There’s something magical about a print that looks like a painting—soft, fluid, expressive. If you’ve ever seen a print that reminded you of watercolor or ink washes, you were likely looking at a monotype.

Monotype is one of the most painterly forms of printmaking. It blurs the line between print and paint, structure and spontaneity—and if you love the look of watercolor, you might fall in love with monotype too.

What Is Monotype?

Monotype is a printmaking technique where an image is painted or rolled onto a smooth surface (like a plexiglass or metal plate), then transferred onto paper with a press. Unlike other methods, you only get one strong print per image—that’s what makes it so unique.

Artists often use:

• Ink washes
• Thin layers of watercolor or gouache
• Oil-based or water-based printing inks
• Brushes, rollers, and even fingers

Because the paint is applied by hand and transferred just once, the final result feels spontaneous and full of life.

Why Monotype Feels Like Watercolor

Monotypes are loved for their:

• Soft edges
• Fluid color fields
• Transparent layers
• Accidental beauty

Much like watercolor, monotype invites flow and unpredictability. You can paint directly onto the plate, play with water or solvent, and then press it all into the paper in one beautiful moment.

The surprise of the reveal is part of the thrill—just like watching watercolors bloom on the page.

Want to explore more intuitive art-making methods?
- Read: How Art Helps with Stress and Mindfulness

Curious about how paint itself is made?
- Read next: How to Make Watercolor Paint