Etching Printmaking

An etching metal plate is first covered with a layer of acid-resistant varnish or wax, known as the etching ground. The artist then uses an etching needle to scratch through the ground, revealing the bare plate. When the design is completed the plate is immersed in acid, which eats away at the areas of exposed metal to create incised lines. The remaining ground is removed, and the plate is covered in ink, which fills the recessed marks. The excess ink is then wiped from the surface of the plate. Finally, the inked plate is covered with a damp piece of paper and run through a press in order to create a finished print.