DRY POINT

Drypoint is a direct intaglio technique for engraving metal without the use of acids. The tool usually used is a sharp stylus with a steel or diamond point. Varying the pressure on the tool causes a variation in the depth and width of the lines, that after printing will yield a more or less rich effect on paper.

In this technique, the burrs crested by the pressure of the point are left to hold the ink, giving a soft, thick printed line which is the main characteristic of this style.

The burrs are soon removed during the cleaning of the plate or flattened by the press. Thus the marks lose their printing strength after only a small number of copies.

Because of this last characteristic, drypoint is not usually used as a reproductive technique.

(from "tecniche dell'incisione originale" INClub Firenze)