Risograph

Riso Kagaku Corporation and Graph

Risograph doesn’t stand for any specific phrase; it’s a brand name associated with this particular printing method. The term is derived from the name of the company that developed a unique printing technology: the Riso Kagaku Corporation.

Risograph printing, often referred to as Riso printing, is a unique and cost-effective printing technique developed in the mid-80s in Japan. It’s a combination of stencil and offset printing methods. Here’s how it works:

1. Master Creation: The process begins with a master, which is a thin, porous stencil-like sheet. An image or design is burned onto it using thermal imaging or a digital duplicator.
2. Ink Application: Once the master is prepared, it is wrapped around a drum. Ink is then applied to this drum, typically in one or two colors, such as black and one additional color.
3. Printing: The paper is fed through the machine, and as it passes under the rotating drum, the ink is forced through the pores in the master and onto the paper, creating the printed image. The process is often associated with a characteristic grainy texture, which adds a unique and somewhat retro aesthetic to the print.

Risograph printing is known for its economical and efficient printing of large quantities. It’s often used for projects like zines, posters, flyers, and art prints. Additionally, the limitations of the process, such as the limited color palette and grainy texture, have made it a favored choice for artists and designers looking to achieve a distinctive and slightly imperfect look in their prints.

• Abbreviation: Risograph