This simple chart briefly describes some of the major techniques used in original fine-art printmaking of multiple copies. In each technique the artist is involved in creating the art on the printing surface and pulling and approving the prints, then signing and numbering the edition. Original prints are smaller editions than mass-produced reproductions because the surfaces used are subject to wear during the printing.

There are many fine books devoted to each technique, too many to list here. Search Google.com for more detailed references on specific techniques. Also read my article about the differences between prints and reproductions.

	Lithography	Relief	Intaglio	Serigraph
Technique	Smooth Plate	woodcut; linoleum cut	etching, engraving, aquatint, drypoint	screen printing; cut stencil or photographic process
Surface	flat stone; metal plates	wood; linoleum	copper, zinc, plastic	nylon, silk, sheer fabric
Tools	lithography crayon; tusche; litho ink	knives, gouges, burins, printing ink	burins, acids, needles, printing ink	screen, masking film, glue, tusche, printing ink
Press	litho press	letter press; hand-rubbing with baren or back of spoon	etching press	squeegee pulled across screen
Type of Print	flat surface, reversed image	raised surface, reversed image	cut-out areas, reversed image	open areas on the screen
Type of Line	grainy; pen or brush	coarse; depends on cut	variable	brush, pen, crayon
Value Range	complete from gray to black	no shading	wide range with spacing of lines	complete
Texture	applied to stone before drawing	wood grain	scratched into plate	textured mask; fabric screen