Printmaking Materials: Papers and Plates

Bristol board is a thick, smooth paper that is ideal for relief printing because it can withstand the pressure of the printing press and the carving process.

Wood is not typically used as a plate in intaglio printing, as it is too soft and would not be able to withstand the pressure of the printing press.

Vellum is a smooth, translucent paper that is ideal for lithography because it absorbs water and grease differently, creating the necessary contrast for the printing process.

Silk is a common material used for screen printing plates because it is strong and flexible, allowing it to be stretched taut over the frame of the printing press.

Rice paper is a thin, delicate paper that is often used for monoprinting because it is absorbent and can hold a lot of ink, creating vibrant and textured prints.

Metal is not typically used as a plate in collagraph printing because it is too hard and difficult to work with.

Japanese paper is a strong, durable paper that is ideal for drypoint printing because it can withstand the delicate scratching of the needle without tearing.

Copper is a common material used for photogravure plates because it is strong and durable, and it can hold a fine level of detail.

Watercolor paper is a thick, absorbent paper that is ideal for etching because it can hold a lot of ink and can withstand the acidic chemicals used in the etching process.

Wood is not typically used as a plate in mezzotint printing because it is too soft and would not be able to withstand the scraping and burnishing process.

Japanese paper is a strong, durable paper that is ideal for woodcut printing because it can withstand the pressure of the printing press and the carving process.

Copper is a common material used for aquatint plates because it is strong and durable, and it can hold a fine level of detail.

Japanese paper is a strong, durable paper that is ideal for linocut printing because it can withstand the pressure of the printing press and the carving process.

Cardboard is not typically used as a plate in soft-ground etching because it is too soft and would not be able to withstand the pressure of the printing press.

Vellum is a smooth, translucent paper that is ideal for chine-collé printing because it can be easily adhered to another sheet of paper, creating a unique and textured print.