Exploring intaglio: creating depth and detail in prints
Lesson details
Learning outcome
I can create an intaglio print that shows depth and detail through the use of line, tone, and inking techniques.
Key learning points
- Intaglio creates depth by holding ink in recessed lines in a plate.
- Varying pressure and line quality impacts detail and tonal range.
- Inking and wiping methods change the clarity and richness of print impressions.
- Safe tool use with burins is essential when cutting plates.
Keywords
Intaglio - a printmaking process where lines are incised into a surface to hold ink
Plate - the surface (metal, card, or plastic) used to incise a design for printing
Burin - a sharp engraving tool used to cut lines into a plate
Impression - the final printed image transferred from plate to paper
Common misconception
The ink should be applied only to the raised surface of the plate.
In intaglio printing, the recessed lines hold the ink - the surface must be wiped clean so only incised marks transfer ink to paper.
Teacher tip
Demonstrate wiping slowly and exaggerate the difference between over-wiping and under-wiping so pupils clearly see how subtle changes affect the printed outcome.
Equipment
Intaglio plates (plastic, card, or metal). Burins/etching needles. Printing press. Oil-based printing ink. Soft cloths, tarlatan, or tissue for wiping. Printing paper. Aprons, gloves.
Licence
Lesson video
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Prior knowledge starter quiz
6 Questions
Q1.Match the term to its definition.
Q2.Which of the following best describes intaglio printing?
Q3.An intaglio plate can be used multiple times if taken care of.
Q4.Why is it important to use line variation and tonal range when sketching a design for an intaglio plate?
Q5.Why must artists handle a burin carefully?
Q6.Select the factors that affect the quality of an intaglio impression.
To help you plan your 11 art and design lesson on: Exploring intaglio: creating depth and detail in prints, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs...
To help you plan your 11 art and design lesson on: Exploring intaglio: creating depth and detail in prints, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs.
The starter quiz will activate and check your pupils' prior knowledge, with versions available both with and without answers in PDF format.
We use learning cycles to break down learning into key concepts or ideas linked to the learning outcome. Each learning cycle features explanations with checks for understanding and practice tasks with feedback. All of this is found in our slide decks, ready for you to download and edit. The practice tasks are also available as printable worksheets and some lessons have additional materials with extra material you might need for teaching the lesson.
The assessment exit quiz will test your pupils' understanding of the key learning points.
Our video is a tool for planning, showing how other teachers might teach the lesson, offering helpful tips, modelled explanations and inspiration for your own delivery in the classroom. Plus, you can set it as homework or revision for pupils and keep their learning on track by sharing an online pupil version of this lesson.
Explore more key stage 4 art and design lessons from the Graphic communication unit, dive into the full secondary art and design curriculum, or learn more about lesson planning.