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THE IMPORTANCE OF PRINTMAKING
Like other types of art, printmaking allows artist to produce an image on various surfaces. In printmaking, an artist can produce multiple copies of the original work. Each print is signed by the artist. A print is not the same as a reproduction of an art work.
THE STEPS OF PRINTMAKING
In making a print, the printmaker follows three basic steps The first step is to make a plate. The printmaker or artist creates a printing plate by altering a surface to create an image. Next, the printmaker applies ink to, or inks, the plate. Finally, the fpintmaker transfers the ink to the paper or cloth by pressing the paper or cloth against the plate. Then the paper or cloth is pulled off the plate. This step may be repeated many times for a given plate. A series of prints that are all exactly alike is called an edition. The printmaker signs his or her name, usually in pencil in the bottom margin, and writes the title on each print of the edition. He or she also writes on each print a number that has this form: 10/20. the second number tells which print you are viewing. A print labeled 10/20 means that you are looking at the tenth of 20 prints that were made form one plate.