When we talk about printmaking, we always go back to the evolution of print styles and techniques and how people from the previous era are able to replicate and make copies of events and happenings that went on with their lives. An Amsterdam canal walking tour would not look the same before as it is today. You cannot just pay for a photography print and even get a discount on the services that are offered in this generation.
Here are the types of printmaking that occurred throughout the years:
Marking on wood
Wood carving is one of the most common methods of printing. People that lived tens or even hundreds of years ago would make duplicates of nature through markings on wood. You can see artifacts from all over the world that show wood carvings as a way for men to print the surroundings and the events that go on in their families and their personal lives. No amount of edarling dating can ever compare to this.
Can you imagine how long it would be to print on wood? First of all, not everyone can carve wood. You would need the skills and the craftsmanship to actually convey what your minds think and show all of them on the drawings on the wood. A working file factory is the trend these days.
Markings on linoleum
This style of printing started to take popularity in the early 20th century. This is a lot easier to make compared to wood carving because the main material used by print artists is linoleum. It is softer and feels a lot like thick paper. Since wood has patterns and grains, it made carvings and printings harder. But with linoleum, the surface is smoother and freer to do just like what you on the internet en tv.
Engraving
Have you ever asked an expert from a local jewelry store for an engraving? Compared to the engraving that was done centuries ago, the tools used today are better and easier to use. Carvers take up much time and effort to make grooves and cuts on materials and then put ink on these markings. The excess ink is wiped off and what remains is the engraving with intricate designs and styles. It is then placed on a printing press and the ink transfers to the paper.