Aquatint Fansite

Aquatint art has been around for centuries. First invented in 1650 by Amsterdam native Jan van de Velde. This art of etching different tones into a plate rather than engraving is a process.

First a metal plate is sealed to protect it from the acid that will be later used. Then the artist etches his design into the plate, with varying degrees of depth to create the contrast desired. The plate is then “washed” over with an acid. Ink is then applied over the plate and then wiped clean. Leaving ink in only the etchings. With the etchings being of varying depths, the plate now has a contrast of shades in the design.

Many artists still today use this and similar techniques to create their art. Many variations of aquatint art has been used over the years. All however with the same intention in mind. To create beautiful works of art out of etchings and to be able to have the expression of different color tones.