A technique of engraving, using a sharp-pointed needle, that produces a furrowed edge resulting in a print with soft, velvety lines is known as drypoint engraving.

Drypoint engraving is a form of intaglio printmaking, where the artist incises a design into a plate using a hard-pointed needle or other sharp tool. Unlike traditional engraving techniques that use a burin or graver to create lines, drypoint engraving relies on the artist's hand pressure to create a furrowed edge along the incised lines. This unique characteristic gives drypoint prints their distinctive soft and velvety appearance.

The process of drypoint engraving begins with a polished metal plate, usually made of copper or zinc. The artist then uses the sharp-pointed needle to scratch or incise the design directly onto the plate's surface. The pressure applied while engraving creates ridges or burrs along the edges of the incised lines. These burrs hold ink, enhancing the print's visual texture and producing the soft, velvety lines characteristic of drypoint prints.

Once the plate is fully engraved, ink is applied to the entire surface. Excess ink is then wiped off, leaving ink only in the incised lines and burrs. The plate is then pressed onto paper using an etching press, transferring the ink onto the paper and creating the final print. The pressure applied during printing also smears the ink along the furrowed edges, further enhancing the softness and velvety appearance of the lines.

Drypoint engraving offers artists a versatile and expressive technique, allowing for a range of artistic possibilities. The depth and darkness of the lines can be controlled by the pressure applied while engraving, resulting in a wide tonal range in the final print. The softness and texture of the lines add a tactile quality to the artwork, creating a visually engaging and unique aesthetic.

In conclusion, drypoint engraving is a technique that uses a sharp-pointed needle to produce furrowed edges, resulting in prints with soft, velvety lines. This intaglio printmaking process offers artists a unique way to create visually textured and aesthetically engaging artworks.

Sign Up