Woodcut: Printing from Wood

Woodcut is one of the oldest and most venerable printmaking techniques, with a tradition dating back to 5th-century China and reaching its European peak during the Renaissance. This method—carving an image in relief on a wooden block—has been fundamental to bookplate making since its beginnings, offering a distinctive character and an unmatched visual strength.

What is woodcut?

Woodcut is a relief printing process in which an image is carved into a wooden block by removing the areas that should not print. The remaining raised surface is inked and pressed onto paper to transfer the image. There are two main variants: woodcut on the plank (with the grain) and wood engraving (end-grain). The latter allows for greater detail and precision.

History and evolution

The first woodcut bookplates appeared in Germany in the 15th century, alongside the invention of the printing press. Artists such as Albrecht Dürer raised the technique to extraordinary artistic heights. During the 19th-century Arts and Crafts movement, woodcut experienced a revival, and in the 20th century artists like M.C. Escher used it to create bookplates of remarkable complexity and beauty.

Creation process

Creating a bookplate using woodcut typically follows these essential steps:

  1. Choosing the wood: Hardwoods (boxwood, cherry, pear) are selected for fine detail, while softer woods can be used for more expressive effects.
  2. Preparing the block: The surface is sanded and smoothed with great care.
  3. Design and transfer: The design is drawn directly on the wood or transferred using carbon paper.
  4. Carving: Using gouges and burins, the non-printing areas are cut away, leaving the design in relief.
  5. Inking: Viscous relief ink is applied with a roller to the raised surface.
  6. Printing: Paper is placed on the block and pressure is applied, by hand or with a press.
  7. Drying: Prints are left to dry completely before use.

Woodcut in bookplates

For bookplates, woodcut offers unique advantages:

  • Provides a handcrafted, warm character that is hard to match
  • Allows high-quality numbered editions
  • Creates a distinctive interplay between the wood grain and the design
  • Ideal for bold outlines and high-contrast compositions
  • The wooden block can be preserved for future reprints
  • Produces bookplates with a characteristic texture and relief

Discover how this ancient technique can bring bookplates to life with extraordinary beauty and personality.