equipment [2]

Collective term for the materials, instruments and tools used for engraving and printing.

dabber

Instrument made up of a handle placed in a cotton wad and wrapped in silk; it is used to spread varnish on the plate.

hand vise

Instrument used to hold and handle the plate while smoking it.

smoking-apparatus

Instrument used to blacken the varnish and the plate with smoke; this makes the figure more visible during the engraving process.

smoking candle

Wax-covered wick used to blacken the plate with smoke.

tarlatan

Muslin used to wipe excess ink from the surface of the plate.

oilstone

Stone used to sharpen tools.

varnish-roller

Instrument used to spread varnish on the surface and prevent ink from adhering to it; it ensures that only the figure is inked.