What process does a woodcut technique utilize?

The woodcut technique involves carving a design into a wooden block, which is integral to the printmaking process. In this method, the artist removes areas of the block to create a relief image; the uncarved areas will hold ink when the block is pressed onto paper or another surface. This traditional technique dates back centuries and allows for striking, bold images due to the contrast between the inked raised areas and the white of the paper.

The other processes mentioned, such as carving into plastic or etching onto metal, relate to different printmaking techniques like linocut or etching, but they do not pertain to woodcut specifically. Additionally, using a collage of different materials refers to mixed media art rather than a specific printmaking method. Understanding these distinctions helps clarify why carving a design into a wooden block is fundamental to the woodcut process.