Drawn on stone, pulled by hand
At its core, stone lithography is a planographic printing process built on the natural repulsion between grease and water. The image is drawn or worked onto a prepared lithographic stone with greasy materials, then chemically fixed so the stone will accept ink only where the image sits. Each colour needs its own stone and its own press run, which is why the process rewards patience and careful planning.
At our Woodstock studio, we keep the process hands-on from the first proof to the final impression. The pressure of the press, the dampness of the paper and the condition of the stone all affect the result, so we check every stage closely. That is part of what gives stone lithography its particular depth, texture and sense of presence, whether the edition is one colour or a layered work with many passes through the press.
What we print for artists and collectors
We produce limited edition lithographs with artists and also work with collectors who want properly printed editions, safe handling and clear guidance on care. Some projects begin with a new stone drawn in the studio, while others involve editioning work from an established image and helping bring the print to a finished state that feels true to the artist’s hand.
Our services are set up for practical studio work and for client communication at each stage. We help with edition planning, proofing sessions, colour separation, stone preparation and paper consultation, then move through editioning, signing and numbering, archival packing and framing coordination. If a collector needs advice on storage, handling or framing, we are happy to assist without overcomplicating it.
- Stone lithography printing for limited editions
- Proofing sessions and colour checking
- Paper guidance for weight, texture and finish
- Signing, numbering and edition records
- Archival packing for local and national delivery
From drawing on stone to the signed sheet
A good edition starts before the press ever turns. We begin by understanding the image, the edition size, the number of colours and the paper choice, then set out a schedule that gives enough time for proofing and drying. This matters because lithography is not a fast process. Each colour layer must sit cleanly on the last, and the studio work has to be consistent across the run.
During proofing, we check line quality, tonal range, registration and colour balance. Small changes can make a big difference, so we keep the artist involved where needed and record decisions carefully. Once the edition is approved, we print the full run, sign and number the sheets, and pack them for collection or delivery. We plan around that so the edition stays stable.
- Initial consultation and edition planning
- Stone preparation and image transfer
- First proofs and adjustments
- Colour layers and final printing
- Signing, numbering and packing
Questions about prints and editions
What is stone lithography in simple terms?
In this printmaking process, the image is drawn on a prepared stone and printed using the natural push and pull between grease and water. Each colour usually needs its own stone and press run.
Do you work with limited editions?
Yes. We specialise in limited edition lithographs, with signing, numbering and edition records handled carefully so each print is tracked properly.
How should I care for a lithograph once I buy it?
To protect the print, keep it flat, dry and out of direct sunlight. If you are framing it, use archival materials and avoid mounting methods that cannot be reversed if needed.
