A trace monotype is a simple and semi-direct printmaking technique. After inking a plate or surface, a piece of printmaking paper is placed on top of the inked surface. Using a pen or any other stylus-type tool, you draw the image on back of the paper. The pressure of the drawing tool picks up the ink on the paper as the pen bears down. When the paper is peeled off the plate, the lines appear on the paper. This is an easy way for beginners to get started with printmaking and requires no special skills or equipment. If you aren’t comfortable drawing freehand, you can trace a photo.