Drypoint vs. Etching — What's the Difference?

Drypoint is a printmaking technique of the intaglio family, in which an image is incised into a plate (or "matrix") with a hard-pointed "needle" of sharp metal or diamond point. In principle, the method is practically identical to engraving.

Etching is traditionally the process of using strong acid or mordant to cut into the unprotected parts of a metal surface to create a design in intaglio (incised) in the metal. In modern manufacturing, other chemicals may be used on other types of material.

A technique of intaglio engraving in which a hard steel needle is used to incise lines in a metal, usually copper plate, with the rough burr at the sides of the incised lines often retained to produce a velvety black tone in the print.

The art of preparing etched plates, especially metal plates, from which designs and pictures are printed.

An engraving or print made using this technique.

A design etched on a plate.

(uncountable) A technique of intaglio printmaking similar to engraving in which an image is incised into a plate by scratching the surface with a hard, sharp metal (or diamond) point.

An impression made from an etched plate.

(countable) The needle used in this technique.

(uncountable) The art of producing an image from a metal plate into which an image or text has been etched with acid.

(countable) A print made using this technique.

(countable) The image created by this process.

Present participle of etch

A design carried out by means of the above process; a pattern on metal, glass, etc., produced by etching.

An impression on paper, parchment, or other material, taken in ink from an etched plate.

An impression made from an etched plate

An etched plate made with the use of acid

Making engraved or etched plates and printing designs from them