How to Make a Toothpick Baren

This video will show you step-by-step how to make your own toothpick baren, for printing relief blocks, using non-toxic materials, and for very little money.
The process is based on the invention/development of a toothpick baren by Professor Seishi Ozakus and documented by Nik Semenoff on his New Developments in Printmaking website. I am unable to post the link to Professor Ozakus' directions, as Nik Semenoff's website is down.
I hope you enjoy, Sarah Whorf
Burnt Toast Press
May 2021

[@Mathchickey]

Thank you! This is really great! I'm excited to make one while I wait for my Caligo inks to arrive.

[@friedasdottir6381]

Thank you.

[@suzisaintjames]

23:54 If you want to seal your fancy paper... Just put a thin coat of the glue you are using for the rest of the project (as long as it dries clear). Also, note... there will be a texture change, so do a test and see if you like it. A texture might make it slip less in your hand so less gripping is needed, but again it depends on your glue. 💖🌞🌵😷

[@ylezAma-artes1919]

Hi Sarah, l am very happy because l am watching videos to learn about collagraphy and l found yours, so please if you can show more videos about this technique. Thank you.

[@starvingartistscollective]

An excellent video Sarah! I had not heard of these before and now MUST try making one this afternoon! Thank you!! Just looked up 'New Directions in Printmaking" website but it is unregistered now, perhaps Nik Semenoff has retired? When I look up 'toothpick baren' in Google for more information your video is the only thing coming up. It appears Sarah that you are now the authority on them!!

[@sarahwhorf]

Hi - I was surprised that the website is down too. It's a bummer. I hope you will make a toothpick baren! They are so easy to print with and are fun to make.

[@suzisaintjames]

How long do the tooth pick barens last? You said you've made quite a few, so is it necessary to make lots at a time? I know the traditional bamboo ones last quite a while. 💖🌞🌵😷

[@sarahwhorf]

I've been using one of mine for about 9 months and it shows little wear. No, you don't need to make a lot of them. I gave some away as gifts and I have been making a lot for my students to use at Humboldt State University.

[@silkeschumann7261]

Toothpicks come in round plastic containern with screw on lits. All you have to do is poor in some glue that works with wood and plastic and voila, done. ;)

[@sarahwhorf]

Yes, you can. It still pops out of the container, even with the 'right' glue.

[@suzisaintjames]

14:18 if you want to fold your tp roll... Find something round that will fit inside that will give it back that round shape... like a piece of dowel or even that glue bottle. 💖🌞🌵😷

[@sarahwhorf]

Yes, that works, for sure. Overall, the paper and toilet rolls are just too thin. Doing two or three layers is a good option, I've found.

[@mattholdzkom5929]

I made the mistake of too much glue. Oof what a mess.