Which tool is used to smooth the surface of a metal intaglio printing plate?

Which tool is used to smooth the surface of a metal intaglio printing plate?

• A. Brayer
• B. Plate
• C. Burnisher
• D. Gouge

Answer: (C)

In intaglio printmaking, how the plate’s surface is prepared directly affects how ink sits and transfers from the recessed lines. A burnisher is the tool designed to smooth and polish the metal surface, removing burrs and flattening irregularities so the plate inked areas print cleanly and evenly. This smoothing step helps prevent rough spots from grabbing extra ink and ensures crisper lines in the final impression. The other tools have different jobs: a brayer applies ink to the plate but doesn’t smooth the surface; a gouge is used to carve or incise into the plate; and the plate is the surface you’re working on, not a tool.

In intaglio printmaking, how the plate’s surface is prepared directly affects how ink sits and transfers from the recessed lines. A burnisher is the tool designed to smooth and polish the metal surface, removing burrs and flattening irregularities so the plate inked areas print cleanly and evenly. This smoothing step helps prevent rough spots from grabbing extra ink and ensures crisper lines in the final impression. The other tools have different jobs: a brayer applies ink to the plate but doesn’t smooth the surface; a gouge is used to carve or incise into the plate; and the plate is the surface you’re working on, not a tool.