Monotype prints bridge the gap between painting and traditional printmaking. The artist works directly on a smooth, non-absorbent surface such as a metal plate, glass, or plastic, applying ink or paint with brushes, rollers, or other tools to create an image. The image is transferred to paper by running plate and paper through a printing press, or by hand-burnishing the back of the paper.

Each print is essentially unique—hence the name "monotype."