Definition
Relief Printing is a printmaking technique where the image is raised above the surface. It involves carving into a material, such as wood or linoleum, and then applying ink to the raised areas. This process creates prints by transferring the inked surface onto paper or fabric. Relief printing is a method used by artists and printmakers to produce multiple copies of an image.
How It’s Used in Printmaking
In relief printing, artists begin by selecting a material, often wood or linoleum, and carving their design into it. After carving, they apply ink to the raised parts of the surface. A sheet of paper is then pressed onto the inked surface, transferring the image. This technique is part of the broader category of printmaking, which also includes intaglio and lithography. Relief printing is accessible for beginners, allowing them to create simple designs, while professionals can use it for intricate artwork and large editions.
History & Origins
Relief printing dates back to ancient times, with its origins traced to China around 220 AD, where woodblock printing was first developed. It later spread to Japan and Europe, influencing many artists. Notable figures, such as Albrecht Dürer, used relief printing to create detailed works. This technique has deep cultural roots, especially in Asian art, where it played a significant role in storytelling and communication.
Variations & Related Terms
There are several variations of relief printing, including woodcut, linocut, and letterpress. Each method has its unique characteristics. For example, woodcut uses wood blocks, while linocut uses softer linoleum. Compared to intaglio, where the image is incised into a surface, relief printing features raised images that are inked.
- See also: Woodcut
- See also: Linocut
- See also: Letterpress
Modern Applications
Today, relief printing remains popular among artists and hobbyists. Many contemporary printmakers experiment with eco-friendly materials and techniques. Digital advancements have also influenced the craft, allowing artists to combine traditional relief methods with modern technology. This makes relief printing relevant for both casual creators and professional artists looking to reach wider audiences.
Practical Tips & Products
When starting with Relief Printing, choose high-quality materials like soft linoleum or durable wood. Ensure your tools, such as carving knives and brayers, are safe and suitable for your project. Consider using kits from Hickman Design, which provide everything needed for beginners, including materials and instructions, to help you create stunning prints.
Related Guides & Articles
Primers & Histories
- Block printing and relief methods
- History of woodblock printing
- History of lino printing as an art form
- Relief and linocut artists
- Japanese printmaking and woodblock prints
- Woodcut
- Linocut
- Collagraph (often relief or hybrid)
How-to & Practice
- Lino printing process guide
- Multicolour lino printing
- 10 lino print ideas for beginners
- Why is my lino print not working?
- Methods to uncurve bowed linoleum
- Paper weights for printmaking (materials choice for relief)
Equipment, Tools & Reviews
- Lino printing equipment explained
- Lino printing rollers and brayers
- Pfeil lino cutting tools
- Lino printing kit review
- Printmaking presses overview (includes relief presses)
Glossary: Relief-relevant Techniques & Components
- Key block
- Reverse image
- Pulling a print
- Registration
- Registration colour
- Registration pins
- Reduction printing
- Overprinting
- Viscosity printing (advanced relief and intaglio crossover)
- Baren
- Brayer
- Bench hook
- Gouges
- Inking slab
- Palette knife
- Oil-based ink
- Water-based ink
- Opaque and transparent inks
- Ink modifiers
- Printmaking press types (includes relief press context)
