Printmaking Tools & Materials
A tool used to press an image or pattern onto another surface.
Stamp
A picture made by pressing or stamping something onto a surface. It’s like making a copy of your design over and over!
When parts of a picture look like they belong together—not too heavy on one side.
Balance
The element of art that refers to the way things feel, or look as if they might feel.
Texture
A shape cut out of paper or cardboard used to block or guide paint.
Stencil
A one-of-a-kind print made by transferring paint from a surface.
Monoprint
When all parts of an artwork feel like they belong together.
Unity
The illusion of a tactile quality on a 2D surface.
Implied Texture
The top of something—the area you draw or print on.
Surface
The faded second print left behind after the first.
Ghost Print
When an artist makes one part of the artwork stand out or grab your attention first.
Emphasis
When part of a surface sticks out higher than the rest—like a coin or carved stamp.
Relief
A print made by placing paper over a textured surface and rubbing with a crayon or pencil.
Rubbing
A design that repeats over and over in an organized way.
Pattern
The difference between light and dark or colors that stand out; showing strong differences in color, shape, line, or texture to make a design more interesting.
Contrast