Basic print techniques

The governing concept of printmaking is transferring an image from a prepared surface onto another surface, usually paper or fabric. The artist may carve, cut, draw, or arrange a design on a block, plate, screen, or other matrix, apply ink or colour, and press it onto the receiving surface. This produces an impression, so option B is correct. Acting belongs to theatre, singing belongs to music, and decorating a building is related to design, craft, or architecture rather than the defining printmaking process. Different methods such as block printing, stencil printing, relief printing, and screen printing vary in technique, but all depend on transferring an image or design to make a print.

In printmaking, a plate or block is the image-bearing surface. The design is carved, cut, or made on it, then inked and printed onto paper, fabric, or another surface. Therefore, option A is correct. Drying colours is not the purpose of preparing a plate or block. Exam tip: Remember that a plate or block transfers an inked design as an impression.

In printmaking, an image on a prepared plate, block, screen, or other surface is transferred, usually with ink, onto paper or another surface. Therefore, option A is correct. Freehand drawing may be used while preparing a design, but it is not printmaking itself. Exam tip: identify printmaking by the transfer of an image from one surface to another.

In printmaking, a matrix is the surface or base on which an image is drawn, carved, or otherwise prepared, and from which prints are made. It can be a woodblock, metal plate, or stone. The paint or ink in option C is a printing material, not the matrix. Exam tip: Remember a matrix as the original printing surface or plate.