What Is Lascaux Lift Solution
Lascaux Lift Solution is a dedicated product designed for applying the lift technique to autographic positives. Its operation is based on the classic sugar-lift principle: Lift Solution defines the non-printing areas, while the final image is built through the subsequent application of sprayed Tusche.
In this system, Lift Solution does not act as a printable drawing medium, but as a resist and lifting agent, allowing the creation of whites, transparencies and clean areas within the positive.
How the Lift Technique Works with Lascaux
Lift Solution does not print
Areas drawn with Lift Solution do not produce image during exposure.
Image is created by contrast
The final image appears when Tusche Wash Spray is applied over the surface:
– Tusche adheres to unprotected areas
– Lift Solution prevents Tusche fixation in reserved zones
When Lift Solution is removed, white areas are revealed.
Negative / positive workflow
The image is planned in reverse:
– light areas are drawn first
– tone and texture are added afterwards
Main Applications
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Screen printing positives: clean whites, reserves and negative drawing.
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Lithography and related techniques: photomechanical reinterpretation of sugar-lift.
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Photogravure and photopolymer: precise control of highlights and non-printing areas.
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Artistic offset and zincography: contrast-based autographic drawing.
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Creative cyanotype: clear reserves and inverted compositions.
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Experimental techniques: combination with washes, sprays and textures.
Advantages Over Other Reserve Methods
Compared to scratching or abrasion
Does not damage the transparent support or create irreversible marks.
Compared to erasing applied tusche
Allows planning the image from light areas rather than correcting afterwards.
Compared to digital methods
Maintains a fully manual, physical and gestural workflow.
How to Use Lascaux Lift Solution
1. Draw with Lift Solution on the transparent support
Recommended: matte polyester film, drafting film or technical acetate.
2. Allow to dry completely
Essential before spraying.
3. Spray Tusche Wash Spray
Apply progressive layers to build tone and texture.
4. Remove Lift Solution
White reserved areas are revealed.
5. Expose
Adjust exposure according to Tusche density.
FAQs
Does Lift Solution print by itself?
No. It acts solely as a resist.
Which product works best with it?
Lascaux Tusche Wash Spray.
Can it be used to correct mistakes?
It is not a correction tool but a reserve-based image-building method.
Is the process reversible?
No. Testing is recommended before final work.
