Relief printing is a printmaking technique where the image is created by carving away parts of a surface, typically made of wood or linoleum. The raised areas that remain are inked and pressed onto paper, producing a printed image. This method allows for bold, graphic designs and is often used for creating posters, illustrations, and fine art prints.
Common forms of relief printing include woodcut, linocut, and letterpress. Each technique involves different materials and tools, but the fundamental principle remains the same: ink is applied to the raised surfaces, while the carved-out areas do not transfer ink, resulting in a striking contrast in the final print.