Which printmaking process uses resin particles and an acid bath to create tonal shading on a metal plate?

• A. Frottage
• B. Mezzotint
• C. Aquatint
• D. Stamping

Answer: (C)

This question is about a printmaking method that creates tonal shading by masking parts of a metal plate with resin and then using an acid bath. In aquatint, resin particles (often powdered rosin) are applied to the plate and heated so they cling. The plate is then immersed in an acid bath; the exposed areas are etched more deeply while the resin-protected areas stay relatively smooth. The result is a textured field of tiny pits that holds ink, producing graduated tones rather than distinct lines. By controlling the size and distribution of the resin particles and the duration in acid, artists can build up a range of tonal values from light grays to near black. This distinguishes aquatint from other methods: frottage relies on rubbing textures onto paper, mezzotint uses a rocker to create a full tonal range without resin and acid, and stamping uses impressions from a stamp.