Pointillé Glossary

A heating process used to soften metal after work hardening so that punching can continue safely.

The number of dots applied in a given area; higher density creates darker shading, while lower density creates lighter tones.

An engraving error where a punch is unintentionally struck twice, causing a blurred or doubled mark.

A layer of pitch, wax, or resin placed behind thin metal to support and stabilise it during engraving.

The angle at which the punch is held when striking; influences depth, shape, and consistency of the impression.

The striking force applied to the punch; must be controlled to avoid uneven depth or metal deformation.

The planned arrangement of patterns or imagery to be created using pointillé; ensures balanced and repeatable decoration.

A decorative engraving technique using small dotted impressions to create patterns, shading, and textures on metal surfaces.

A small metal tool with a shaped tip used to strike an impression into the metal surface during pointillé work.

The shaped surface at the tip of a punch that determines the appearance of each individual dot.