A matrix is an object like a wood block, metal plate, or lithographic stone that is carved to form a design which can then be used to transfer an impression onto paper to create a print. The areas carved away will remain white on the print while the remaining areas will transfer ink. Albrecht Dürer was a famous 15th century printmaker known for his precise detail and innovations in woodcut printmaking. The type of paper used can greatly impact the outcome, with archival Japanese paper being well-suited for woodblocks to prevent degradation over time.

1. A matrix is an object upon which a design has been formed and which is then used to make an impression on a piece of paper, thus creating a print. A {wood} block, {metal} plate, or {lithographic} stone can be used as a matrix.

2. You carve away the areas you want to remain white. This is also known as the “negative space”: The empty space or seemingly unimportant background space, in an artwork.

3. Albrecht Dürer: One of the Greats! Albrecht Durer is a famous printmaker from the Northern Renaissance. His precise attention to detail and incredible craft revolutionized printmaking and woodcut’s potential for detail Check him out on Wikipedia for a basic understanding!

4. Paper, does it matter? The answer is YES. The type of paper can greatly affect the outcome of your print. You want an “archival paper”, one which does not contain acid and will not yellow or break down with age. For woodblocks, the best paper to use would be an archival Japanese paper.

5. Chatter Marks: Slightly raised ridges in the block left behind from the carving process which pick up and deposit a little bit of ink onto the paper. Notice the little left-over chatter marks in this print

6. This is WAY TOO MUCH ink, if this were your brayer, you would continue rolling until it is evenly coated with a thin layer of ink

7. A brayer is a hand roller which printmakers use to evenly spread ink on a wood block or metal plate.