WATER-BASED WOODBLOCK PRINTNG

Printmaking is the process of making artworks by printing. 

Printing Principle 
Woodblock printing is the oldest form of printmaking. It is categorised as relief printing with the basic principle of creating an image from the raised surface of the matrix. The image produced on the paper mirrors that on the block. 

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Diff. Types of Woodblocks:

• Woodcut
  

A rip-cut is to sever or divide a piece of wood parallel to the grain. In Hong Kong, the most easily found rip cut woodblocks are Tilia plywood and Japanese Bigleaf Magnolia. 

Craving
Common craving tools are suitable for woodcut. 

Ink / Printing
Both oil-based or water-based ink are applicable. With a inked block and a piece of paper laid over it, a print is then finished either by rubbing the paper using hard, smooth object like Baren or runs it through a press. 

Common woodcut carving knives set.
(with diff. shapes of blades )

Burin

• Wood Engraving

Cross cut is a cut perpendicular to the grain. With the wood' s end grain, cross cut wood is comparatively much harder and more fine surface than a rip cut surface. This facilitated more detailed images. 

Engraving
Burin is usually used for engraving rather then carving knives.  With this, engraver could create thin delicate lines.

Ink
Oil based ink is usually applied by a roller to the surface of the block.