The monotype is often referred to as the painter's print. History traces it back to Rembrandt in the 17th century, William Blake in the 18th century, Edgar Degas in the 19th century, then Picasso, Chagall, Motherwell, Thiebaud and nearly all late 20th century masters. Degas referred to his monotypes as printed drawings and used them as bases for his pastels.

There are many ways that a monotype can be produced. The artist paints directly on a metal plate with ink or paint. Dampened paper is then pressed against the surface and it is run through a press. Since most of the ink or paint transfers to the paper, it is considered an individual work of art and cannot be reproduced again.

The appeal of monotypes to viewers and collectors is that there is an intimacy about them. The artist often uses a subtractive technique letting the viewer see the fingerprints, rag prints or tools that have been used. Thus the collector has the feel that the artist has really been there.

Betsy Anderson's monotypes are done on an etching press using a metal plate, 100% rag paper, and oil etching ink. Some work has been done with colored pencil after the print has dried, further making it an individual piece of art work.