Ink floating is a paper marbling technique that dates back centuries, from the calligraphic panels of the Islamic world to the suminagashi paper of Japan. Its history is common to the bookmaking techniques of 19th-century Europe, and it still has many applications today.
Ink floating, also known as erbu or cloud art, is a great activity that can be done with a variety of age groups. It works especially well with teenagers, who often enjoy the satisfaction of making original and colorful works of art within minutes. These one-of-a-kind monoprints are surprisingly beautiful and easy to create.
Teens create marbled artwork using the ancient art of ink floating at a library in Indiana.Â