Printmaking Glossary
This glossary explains many of the terms commonly encountered in original printmaking. Whether you're new to collecting or simply looking up an unfamiliar technique or edition term, these definitions provide a quick reference to the language of fine art prints.
Definition of an original print
An original print is a work of art created specifically as a print—not a reproduction of a painting, drawing, or photograph. The artist creates the image on a printing matrix, such as a copper plate, woodblock, lithographic stone, or screen, from which each impression is hand printed as part of a limited edition. Every impression is considered an original work of art because the print itself is the artist's intended final medium.
Traditionally, original prints are signed and numbered by the artist, and the edition is limited to the number of impressions the artist authorizes. Whether created through etching, lithography, woodcut, mezzotint, or another printmaking process, an original print is valued as an authentic artistic expression in its own right.
Common Print Terms
Common Print Terms
à la poupée
A process by which all colors are applied to the plate and printed simultaneously, creating varying impressions.
A.P. (Artist's Proof)
Impressions for the use of the artist outside of the regular edition.
Archival Paper
Acid-free, durable paper manufactured for long-term stability and resistance to deterioration.
Blind Embossing
An impression made without ink, leaving a raised or recessed image in the paper.
bon à tirer (B.A.T.)
French for "good to print." The approved impression that serves as the standard for the remainder of the edition.
Burnishing
The process of smoothing or polishing a plate to lighten or remove printed areas.
Burr
The raised ridge of metal created by scratching a plate with a drypoint needle. It holds ink and produces the soft, velvety line characteristic of drypoint.
Cancelled Plate
A plate intentionally defaced or scratched to prevent further printing after the edition is complete.
Catalogue Raisonné
A comprehensive catalog of all known works by a particular artist.
Chine Collé
A process in which a thin sheet of paper is bonded to a heavier backing sheet during printing.
Counter Proof
An impression pulled from a freshly printed impression while the ink is still wet.
Deckle Edge
The naturally irregular edge of handmade or mould-made paper.
Edition
The total number of impressions printed from a matrix and authorized by the artist.
Edition Size
The number of impressions included in an edition.
Foxing
Brown or reddish spots on paper caused by age, moisture, or impurities.
Hors Commerce (H.C.)
French for 'not for sale.' Impressions printed outside the numbered edition, traditionally for promotional or presentation purposes.
Light Struck
Paper or artwork that has faded or discolored through prolonged exposure to light.
Matrix
The block, plate, stone, screen, or other surface from which a print is made.
Open Edition
An edition with no predetermined limit on the number of impressions that may be printed.
Plate Mark
The embossed outline left in the paper by the edge of an intaglio plate during printing.
Plate Tone
A thin film of ink intentionally left on the surface of an intaglio plate to create tonal effects.
Printer's Proof (P.P.)
An impression retained by the printer in recognition of their work on the edition.
Registration
The precise alignment of successive colors or printing elements.
State
A distinct stage in the development of a print before the plate or block is further altered. Prints may be described as First State, Second State, etc.
Trial Proof (T.P.)
An impression pulled during the development of the image so the artist can evaluate progress.
Variable Edition
An edition in which each impression intentionally differs in color, inking, or other characteristics.
Watermark
A design or identifying mark incorporated into paper during manufacture and visible when held to the light.