Relief Printmaking Basics

Presented by Francine Affourtit

Relief printmaking uses carved wooden blocks to create intricate printed works of art. Learn the basics of relief printmaking with this free instructional printmaking video series.

Series Summary

Printmaking is the process of making artworks by printing on paper. Prints are created from a single original surface, like metal plates, stone, wood blocks, or linoleum. The plates or wood blocks are then inked and run through a press to create a print. Though many prints can be produced from a single plate, each print is considered an original piece of art since it is not a replica of an existing piece. Albrecht Durer of early sixteenth century Europe created woodcuts and etchings of the highest quality, which increased the use and popularity of this art method. Today, hundreds of artists still use the same printmaking techniques of old to create truly unique prints. One type of printmaking is relief printing. In this method, the raised portions of a wood block are printed, and the carved areas are left without ink. An experienced printmaker demonstrates basic relief printmaking techniques in this free instructional printmaking video series. Find out what tools you'll need to start carving, and learn how each tool is used. Start creating your own relief prints with this instructional guide.

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Relief Printmaking Problem Solving

When problem solving in relief printmaking, incorporate mistakes into your final piece. Get problem solving tips with expertise from an experienced printmaker in this free printmaking video.

Relief Printmaking U-Gouge

A U-gouge in printmaking will carve away a broad line in the wood block. Learn about the types of U-gouges with expertise from an experienced printmaker in this free printmaking video.

Relief Printmaking Wood

Wood types for relief printmaking include plywood and shina wood. Learn the difference between wood types with expertise from an experienced printmaker in this free printmaking video.

Relief Printmaking Directional Carving

Carving in a purposeful direction in relief printmaking will produce a balanced piece of art. Learn about directional carving with expertise from an experienced printmaker in this free printmaking video.

Relief Printmaking Reverse Image

When making a relief print, your image will be reversed. Learn printmaking tips with expertise from an experienced printmaker in this free printmaking video.

Relief Printmaking Mistakes

Mistakes in relief printmaking cannot be erased. Learn mistake fixing ideas with expertise from an experienced printmaker in this free printmaking video.

Relief Printmaking Image Transfer

Transfer your image for relief printmaking with tracing paper. Learn how to use this image transfer method with expertise from an experienced printmaker in this free printmaking video.

Relief Printmaking Line Curving

Curved lines in relief printmaking are difficult to master. Learn line curving techniques with expertise from an experienced printmaker in this free printmaking video.

Relief Printmaking Safety

Safety in relief printmaking is important to remember since knives and blades are traditionally used. Get safety tips with expertise from an experienced printmaker in this free printmaking video.

Relief Printmaking Information

Relief printmaking refers to inking the raised parts of a plate and not the cut away areas. Learn more about relief printmaking with expertise from an experienced printmaker in this free printmaking video.

Relief Printmaking V-Gouge

A V-gouge in printmaking will make a straight, thin line. Learn about the types of V-gouges with expertise from an experienced printmaker in this free printmaking video.

Relief Printmaking Knife Use

Relief printmaking knives are used in a variety of ways. Learn how to use a printmaking knife with expertise from an experienced printmaker in this free printmaking video.

Relief Printmaking Tools

Relief Printmaking tools are held low and parallel to the wood block. Learn about holding wood cut tools with expertise from an experienced printmaker in this free printmaking video.

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