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“Scratchboard” is a technique blending the precision of drawing, the detail of engraving and the hues of painting into a single piece of artwork.

The original scratchboard art was done in black and white only, but now boards of hardboard coated in white clay and perfectly inked are used. Most artists prefer to buy pre-inked boards.

With conte crayon, a rough sketch of the image is made on the board. Then with sharp, knife-life scratchboard tools, which must be kept very sharp, the image is defined. Areas between the lines must be filled with hundreds of scratches. When the image is complete, it is then sprayed with a workable fixative to protect the inked areas. Angie uses a water-based paint (gouache) to blend all the colors of nature into her artwork. It is finally varnished for protection.

Hopefully, this explanation will help you understand what went into the artwork you are viewing.