Art etching

Art etching is a printmaking process where an artist creates an image on a metal plate, typically copper or zinc, coated with a protective waxy ground. The artist then scratches into the ground to expose the metal beneath, forming a design. The plate is submerged in acid, which etches or bites into the exposed metal, creating grooves. After cleaning the plate, it’s inked—lining the etched grooves—and then wiped clean on the surface. When pressed onto paper with a printing press, the ink from the grooves transfers, producing a detailed print of the original design.