This is a relief process whereby the design to be printed is left in relief on a smooth block of wood. Traditionally this would have been the end grain of boxwood polished to a mirror-smooth surface. Nowadays there are cheaper alternatives such as lemonwood and synthetic materials available.
The design has to be incised into the block in reverse. Very fine tools are used in engraving and very fine lines and marks can be made. Everything cut away will be white in the final print.
The block is then inked up with a roller or brayer and the raised, uncut areas will print.
Prints tend to be small and are often used in book illustrations, book plates and cards.
Kath Littler | Two prints from the Twelve days of Christmas Series
These are woodengravings by local artist Sally Hands
We have work for sale on this site
To see more of her work, check out her website