Chris Daunt : Maplewood : Engraving Block : 5x7cm (Apx. 2x3in)

Wood engravings are a form of relief printmaking – areas of wood are cut away from the block to leave the final image.

Maple (Acer saccharum, Acer nigrum). American hard maple has been used by American engravers for decades. Pale beige in color, with an even grain, it is less dense than Lemonwood, making it easier to clear larger areas. All woods perform best with sharp tools, but this is especially the case with Maple.These blocks are type high and can be used alongside type in a printing press.

Note: Endgrain wood is highly susceptible to changes in temperature and humidity and heat can cause the blocks to crack. It is recommended to store woodblocks on their edge (like books on a shelf) with space in between and never flat. Ideally, engraving blocks are kept at a constant, moderate temperature.