An original print is a fine art process that produces multiples. In no sense is an original print a copy of a reproduction. Washington Printmakers prints are printed on the finest quality, acid-free art paper. The following describe some of the printmaking techniques used by our gallery's artists.
Relief printing is one of the oldest printmaking techniques.
Areas or lines are cut into the surface of the block with knives or gouges. Only the surface of the block receives the ink and prints the image. Paper is then put face down on the block and run through a press or printed by hand with a wooden spoon or baren. Woodcut by Parker Wood engraving by Thompson Wood engraving differs from woodcut in two major ways. Second, wood engravers cut into the blocks with gravers and burins, usually very small, rather than knives and gouges.