Paper marbling is a method of aqueous surface design, which can produce patterns similar to smooth
marble or other stone. The patterns are the result of color floated on either plain water or a viscous solution known as
size, and then carefully transferred to an absorbent surface, such as
paper or fabric. Through several centuries, people have applied marbled materials to a variety of surfaces. It is often employed as a writing surface for
calligraphy, and especially book covers and endpapers in
bookbinding and
stationery. Part of its appeal is that each print is a unique
monotype.