Woodcut

Woodcut is a printmaking technique in which a relief design is carved into a block of wood to create a print or impression on a surface.

The process involves inking the raised part of the carved wood, before pressing it onto a surface such as paper or fabric. The inked areas transfer the design, while the carved-out parts remain unprinted.

This method of printing was widely used in the past, especially in the making of illustrations for books.

The art of carving, cutting or engraving wood for printing may sometimes be referred to as xylography.