A method is described for the preparation of a sample for the electron microscopy study of pigment layer distribution. The sample of print is first covered under the 25-30 degree angle with chromium and then under the 90 degree angle with carbon. The sample is then covered with melted polystyrene and the paper layer is removed chemically using sodium hydroxide, sulfuric acid and hydrofluoric acid, and mechanically using ultrasound with a frequency of 22 KHz. The carbon replica of the print surface is then obtained by dissolving the polystyrene layer in toluene vapor. Photomicrographs of various printed paper surfaces obtained using the described technique are given. -- AATA