The image is drawn on the block and the non-image areas are cut away. Ink is applied to the raised area, paper is placed on the block, and the back of the paper is rubbed to pick up the ink. In the intaglio printing an impression is made from a zinc or copper plate. The word intaglio is Italian and means to engrave or cut into. Lines are cut into the metal plate with acid or a sharp tool.
Ink is applied to the plate, the lines hold ink and the surface is wiped clean.
Damp paper is forced into the inked lines with a press and picks up the image. In lithography an impression is made from a stone or metal plate. The word lithography comes from the Greek words for stone and writing. The process is based on the simple principle that grease and water do not mix. A drawing is made on a stone or metal plate which is then processed so that the image areas accept ink and the non-image areas repel ink.