How to Make an Inkblot

The inkblot test was developed by Hermann Rorschach in 1921 and is now known as the Rorschach Inkblot Test. This test is used by trained professionals in the mental health field to determine certain personality characteristics. For this test, the clinician asks the client to look at a series of inkblots and describe what they see. Other professionals have designed their own versions of this test, with different scoring and interpretation guidelines. Inkblot tests are projective tests, meaning the responses on the test indicate the client's interpretation of the world around them, which reflects their thoughts, feelings and experiences. Special training is necessary to use projective techniques such as inkblot tests. However, professionals may create their own inkblots for informal assessment of clients.

Things You'll Need

• Paper or card stock
• Black paint or ink
• Paintbrush, straw or spoon

Show More

Instructions

• 1

  Lay the paper or card stock flat on the table. Drip paint or ink onto the center of the paper. You may also paint with a paintbrush or other object; however, ensure that the pattern is random rather than making particular shapes or designs. More than one color may be used on the same card.

• 2

  Fold the paper or card stock in half. Typically the fold is vertical, making a horizontal card. However, since this is for informal use, orientation is not important. Press the paper together, ensuring that the paint or ink is pressed against both sides to make an imprint.

• 3

  Unfold the paper gently. Allow the paint or ink to dry. Press the crease out of the center of the paper as much as possible to allow the person viewing the inkblot to see the whole picture rather than focusing on two halves. Turn the paper upside down on the table and run your finger over the crease to minimize it, or place heavy books or other objects on top and leave them overnight to reduce the crease.