What Is Lascaux Tusche Diluting Liquid
Lascaux Tusche Diluting Liquid is a technical auxiliary medium developed to control and adjust the behavior of Tusche during the creation of autographic positives. Unlike simple dilution with water, it modifies viscosity and dispersion without breaking the structure or stability of the graphic material.
Its use provides greater technical and expressive control, particularly in works requiring tonal precision, layered application or controlled reactions.
How the Diluting Liquid Works: Control and Modulation
Flow regulation
Allows tusche to become more fluid while maintaining homogeneity and avoiding irregular deposits.
Transparency control
Facilitates the creation of washes, mid-tones and smooth tonal transitions.
More progressive drying
Slightly slows drying, enabling wet-on-wet work and controlled reactions.
Material stability
Unlike water, it preserves tusche cohesion and prevents unwanted separation.
Compatibility with Lascaux Tusches
Especially suitable for use with:
It can be used alone or combined with water, adjusting proportions according to the desired effect.
Main Applications
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Screen printing positives: fine tonal control, even washes and layered work.
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Lithography and related techniques: smooth modulation and predictable tusche behavior.
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Photogravure and photopolymer: precise density and grain adjustment.
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Artistic offset and zincography: control of autographic drawing and glazing.
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Creative cyanotype: positives with stable, clean gradations.
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Experimental techniques: controlled reactions and complex mixtures.
Advantages Over Dilution with Water
Greater technical control
Avoids unpredictable results caused by excessive dilution.
More uniform results
Reduces halos, deposits and irregular edges.
Better layered behaviour
Ideal for progressive editing and multi-layered positives.
How to Use Lascaux Tusche Diluting Liquid
1. Mix with the tusche
Add small amounts directly to the tusche until the desired flow is achieved.
2. Adjust according to technique
Modify proportions depending on whether you want:
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soft washes
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stable mid-tones
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extended wet mixing
3. Apply on the transparent support
Recommended:
4. Allow to dry and continue the process
Once dry, the positive can be further worked or exposed.
Technical Tips Based on Practical Tests
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Always work with small, progressive quantities.
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Ideal for combining with Tusche Wash in large washes.
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Offers much finer control than water-only dilution.
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Especially useful in dry or warm climates.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does it replace water?
Not completely. It is a complement that improves control and stability.
Can it be mixed with water?
Yes, adjusting proportions to achieve specific effects.
Does it affect exposure?
No, as long as appropriate densities are respected and tests are carried out.
Is it compatible with all Tusches?
It is specifically formulated for Lascaux Tusches.
