A Drypoint printmaking plate is created by scratching with a sharp implement (a dry point) into a smooth surface.

The plate can be made from thin plastic sheet, shiny paper or metal. 

The angle at which the implement is used (upright or at an angle) alters the thickness of line.  Also the pressure with which the marks are made can affect how fine or dark the scratched marks will print. 

The main characteristic of a Drypoint print compared to an etching is the softer and more fuzzy lines that are produced.

This is produced when the material that is scratched from the plate creates a burr either to one side of the mark or both sides of the mark depending on the angle at which it was made.  

Inking the plate involves applying ink to the plate, pushing ink into the scratches. The surface ink is then removed by gentle wiping leaving ink in the scratches and around the burrs, thus creating a more fuzzy line.

The plate is then printed using a traditional etching press which pushes damp paper into the marks made.lifting the ink out and transferring the image onto the paper. Thus producing an original print.