In textiles, a process whereby a design is cut into the surface of the printing applicator. All printing and surface decoration–other than digital printing–is done with an engraved block, roller or screen. The quality of the engraving determines the fine-ness, the calibre and the precision of the finished pattern, which is almost always reflected in the cloth price. Metal engravings give the finest lines.
See hand block printing, screen printing, roller printing, Anokhi, toile de jouy.