In collagraphy, what is the primary method of creating a print?

In collagraphy, the primary method of creating a print involves attaching materials of various textures to a flat surface, which is then inked and pressed onto paper or another substrate to create an image. This technique allows for a rich, tactile quality because artists can use a wide array of materials, such as fabric, cardboard, textured papers, or found objects, to create diverse visual effects.

The process begins with the artist constructing a plate by layering and adhering these materials. When ink is rolled over the surface, it collects in the grooves and recesses of the different textures, producing a unique print that captures the intricacies of the attached elements. This method stands out in printmaking for its versatility and the hands-on nature of its creation.

While other options describe different printmaking techniques, they do not reflect the unique characteristics of collagraphy. For example, using a smooth metal tool is more aligned with methods like engraving or etching, which involve cutting into the surface of a hard material, while drawing with a grease pencil references techniques used in lithography. Hence, the approach of affixing textures is what distinctly defines collagraphy.