Lithography is based on the chemical repellence of oil and water. Designs are drawn or painted with greasy ink and crayons on specially prepared (polished) limestone or metal plate. The surface is moistened with water, which the stone or plate accepts in areas not covered by the crayon. An oily ink, applied with a roller, adheres only to the drawing and is repelled by the wet parts of the stone. The print is then made by pressing paper against the inked drawing. In Lithography, the printing and non-printing areas are both at the same level, as opposed to intaglio and relief processes in which the design is cut into the printing surface. |
