
WOOD ENGRAVING
Illustrations
INTRODUCTION TO SECOND EDITION
WOOD-ENGRAVING PAST AND PRESENT
WOOD ENGRAVING
THE WOOD
DRAWING
ENGRAVING
PROOF TAKING
PREPARING BLOCK FOR PRINTER
This compact handbook opens the world of wood‑engraving to anyone with a curious mind and a steady hand. It walks the reader through the essential tools—a burin, a block of seasoned wood, inks and presses—and shows step‑by‑step how to transfer a sketch onto the block and carve the delicate lines that will become an illustration. The instructions are clear and unpretentious, aimed at beginners who wish to produce their own book ornaments rather than become full‑time commercial engravers.
Beyond technique, the author shares a quiet protest against the flood of cheap photographic reproduction that has dulled the visual arts. He argues that true beauty lies in the integrity of the hand‑crafted line, urging readers to let personal responsibility guide their work instead of market pressures. By the end, the listener will feel both equipped to try their first cut and inspired to value the art of making something beautiful by hand.
Language
en
Duration
~49 minutes (47K characters)
Publisher of text edition
Project Gutenberg
Release date
2014-01-06
Rights
Public domain in the USA.
Subjects

1879–1975
Known for a practical, hands-on classic about wood engraving, this British craft writer brought rare first-hand experience to a traditional art. His work still stands out for its directness and deep knowledge of the trade.
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