Collagraphs are the images created by printing from a plate made of sturdy cardboard. Various shapes and textured materials are glued to the board and several coats of shellac or varnish are applied.  The image above shows the collagraph plate with collage pieces and one of the coats of varnish drying. It is important that the glue and shellac or varnish is completely dry before the next layer is added, or the layers can lift and separate, damaging the plate and affecting the print. The plate is then inked with a stiff brush and the colour wiped away and added with a cloth. An impression is then created by passing the plate, together with damp paper, through a press.