Sosaku : Japanese Inking Brushes

When making Japanese style woodblock prints, inking is done with a brush rather than a roller. The uneven surface of the block, and the mixing of paste and pigment on the block, make the brush a logical tool. In addition, this method of applying ink allows for more expression by adjusting the amount of color on the block or by blending areas of pigment into paste for subtle graduations. By brushing over the print area with circular movements you can ensure an even application of color.

The long handled hanga bake, or printing brush, is designed for detailed inking. It is made from stiff hoghair tied into a bamboo handle. The broad maru bake is for inking larger areas of the block. It looks a bit like a shoe brush and is made of tightly packed and folded horsehair. The maru bake needs to be conditioned before printing or the coarse cut ends of the hairs will create brush marks in the ink. You can do this by singeing the tips of the hairs on a hotplate or the bottom of a cast iron pan and then brushing over coarse sandpaper or silicon carbide paper. It will work best if soaked for 10 minutes or so before printing. Clean after each session with mild soapy water and store with bristles pointing down.