
audiobook
by F. Morley (Frank Morley) Fletcher
Meadowsweet. Collotype reproduction of a woodblock print by the Author. (Frontispiece.)
THE ARTISTIC CRAFTS SERIES OF TECHNICAL HANDBOOKS EDITED BY W. R. LETHABY
E-text prepared by David Clarke, Janet Blenkinship,
WOOD-BLOCK PRINTING - A DESCRIPTION OF THE CRAFT OF WOODCUTTING & COLOUR PRINTING BASED ON THE JAPANESE PRACTICE BY F. MORLEY FLETCHER WITH DRAWINGS AND ILLUSTRATIONS BY THE AUTHOR AND A. W. SEABY. ALSO COLLOTYPE REPRODUCTIONS OF VARIOUS EXAMPLES OF PRINTING, AND AN ORIGINAL PRINT DESIGNED AND CUT BY THE AUTHOR PRINTED BY HAND ON JAPANESE TAPER
EDITOR'S PREFACE
AUTHOR'S NOTE
ILLUSTRATIONS
COLLOTYPE PLATES
APPENDIX
ERRATA
This handy manual opens a window onto the world of wood‑block printing, drawing its techniques from the refined Japanese tradition while tracing their earlier roots in European art. The author blends clear, step‑by‑step instructions on carving, ink preparation, and colour registration with thoughtful commentary on how good design and solid workmanship belong together. Detailed illustrations and reproduced prints show the subtle balance between flat colour fields and delicate line work, giving readers a vivid sense of the craft’s visual language.
Beyond the technical process, the book argues that mastering these skills can provide a rewarding vocation for anyone with an eye for detail and a love of hands‑on creation. It treats design not as mere decoration but as an integral part of quality production, encouraging apprentices to think critically about material choices and finishing touches. Whether you’re a budding artisan or simply curious about the history of colour printing, the guide offers a solid foundation for exploring this beautiful intersection of art and industry.
Full title
Wood-Block Printing A Description of the Craft of Woodcutting and Colour Printing Based on the Japanese Practice A Description of the Craft of Woodcutting and Colour Printing Based on the Japanese Practice
Language
en
Duration
~1 hours (95K characters)
Publisher of text edition
Project Gutenberg
Release date
2006-12-26
Rights
Public domain in the USA.

1866–1949
Best known for helping bring Japanese color woodblock printing to Western artists, this English-born painter, printmaker, and teacher also wrote one of the early practical guides to the craft. His work and teaching linked fine art, design, and hands-on technique in a way that still feels fresh.
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