Chine-collé
Chine-collé is a printmaking technique in which a thin sheet of delicate paper is bonded to a heavier backing during the printing process. The image is printed onto the lightweight sheet while it is simultaneously adhered to the support, creating a unified surface.
The artist places the fine paper—often chosen for its colour or translucency—over the inked plate, with adhesive applied to its reverse. As the paper passes through the press, the pressure transfers the ink and secures the thin sheet to the backing paper in a single action.
Chine-collé does not define the image-making method itself; rather, it enhances an existing print process, most commonly within intaglio. The technique allows for subtle contrasts in texture and tone, as well as the introduction of colour through the inserted sheet.
The result is a layered surface that combines delicacy with structural support. Chine-collé is valued for the refinement it brings to a print, emphasising material nuance and compositional sensitivity.
-
A thin sheet of fine paper is placed onto a stronger backing sheet.
The image is printed onto the thin paper during the printing process.
Adhesion occurs simultaneously under pressure.
-
Delicate surface quality.
Subtle tonal variation from layered papers.
Fine detail with enhanced colour depth.
-
Printing requires careful alignment and pressure control.
Consistency depends on precision during printing.
Edition size is fixed by the artist.
-
Defined by edition size.
Condition is especially important due to delicate materials.