Tetra-Pak Drypoint Plate
A flattened juice carton is a perfect intaglio plate — just scratch and print.
Scratch a drawing into the shiny inside of a juice carton, fill the scratches with ink, then squeeze paper onto it.
- ▸The silver layer inside a Tetra-Pak is thin metal — it holds ink just like a copper plate.
- ▸Wipe the smooth surface clean so only the scratched lines stay inky.
- ▸Damp paper and firm pressure (a spoon works) lift the ink out of the grooves.
Steps
- 01
Cut the carton open and flat. The shiny silver inside is your printing surface.
- 02
Scratch your image into the silver layer with a nail — anywhere you scratch, ink will hold.
- 03
Smear ink across the entire plate, then wipe back firmly with newsprint or scrim, leaving ink only in the scratches.
- 04
Lay damp paper on the plate, top with felt or a folded cloth.
- 05
Burnish hard with the back of a spoon, rolling pin, or run through a press.
Materials5
- — A clean Tetra-Pak juice or milk carton
- — Scissors
- — A nail, dry pen, or etching needle
- — Etching ink (or stiff oil paint)
- — A spoon or rolling pin for hand-printing
Safety
Mostly hand tools and inert materials. Standard studio hygiene applies.
- ☐Work in a ventilated area; keep food and drink out of the studio
- ☐Read each material's safety data sheet (SDS) before starting
- ☐Have water, soap, and a first-aid kit accessible
Heuristic guidance derived from listed materials. Always consult each material's safety data sheet (SDS) and a qualified instructor before attempting.
Notes
Cheaper than copper, prints just as cleanly, and yields 10–20 prints before wearing out. The Aluminum-foil layer holds ink beautifully.