A printing plate is prepared for the insertion of images by applying an ink accepting
layer and an ink repelling layer to it. A developing fluid is sprayed onto the
ink repelling layer by an ink jet printing group. The developing fluid is sprayed
in the image to be printer and the ink repelling layer is etched or dissolved in
the sprayed area. The etched or dissolved areas of the ink repelling layer are
removed. The method is particularly adapted for use with a waterless printing plate
having an ink repelling layer of silicon.
