Lithograph vs. Print — What's the Difference?
By Tayyaba Rehman — Published on October 9, 2023
Lithograph is a specific printmaking technique using limestone or metal plates, while print is a generic term for an image produced from a template.
Difference Between Lithograph and Print
Table of Contents
ADVERTISEMENT
Key Differences
From a collector's standpoint, lithographs can often hold more value than other types of prints. This is because lithographs usually have limited editions and are directly tied to an artist's hand. Print, being a more encompassing term, can refer to mass-produced items or limited edition pieces, making its value variable based on its rarity and the technique used.
Tayyaba Rehman
Oct 09, 2023
In daily vernacular, print can also refer to digital or photographic reproductions, printed documents, and even patterns on fabrics. Lithograph, however, remains tied to its specific printmaking technique, seldom straying from its art-related connotations.
Tayyaba Rehman
Oct 09, 2023
The terms lithograph and print often appear in the context of art and printmaking, yet they hold different meanings. A lithograph specifically references a printmaking process where an image is drawn onto limestone or a metal plate with a greasy medium. In contrast, print is a broader term, referring to any image or text reproduced from a template or matrix.
Tayyaba Rehman
Oct 09, 2023
When discussing the world of art, a lithograph is generally considered a type of original artwork, as the artist typically draws directly onto the plate. Print, however, can encompass various techniques, from digital printing to traditional methods like etching and woodcut. Therefore, while all lithographs are prints, not all prints are lithographs.
Tayyaba Rehman
Oct 09, 2023
Comparison Chart
Definition
A printmaking technique using limestone or metal plates.
An image/text produced from a template/matrix.
Tayyaba Rehman
Oct 09, 2023
ADVERTISEMENT
Art Context
Considered an original art piece.
Can be original or a reproduction.
Tayyaba Rehman
Oct 09, 2023
Technique Specificity
Specific to its method.
Encompasses various techniques.
Tayyaba Rehman
Oct 09, 2023
Value
Often holds higher value in art collection.
Value varies based on rarity and technique.
Tayyaba Rehman
Oct 09, 2023
Usage
Primarily art-related.
Broad usage including documents, photos, and patterns.
Tayyaba Rehman
Oct 09, 2023
Definitions
Lithograph
An artwork produced by the lithography technique.
The gallery displayed a rare 19th-century lithograph.
Tayyaba Rehman
Sep 22, 2023
ADVERTISEMENT
An image or text produced from a template.
The print of the photograph was crystal clear.
Tayyaba Rehman
Sep 22, 2023
Lithograph
A method where images are drawn with a greasy medium.
The lithograph process allows for smooth gradients.
Tayyaba Rehman
Sep 22, 2023
Lithograph
A technique resisting water-based ink except where drawn.
The artist used lithograph methods to ensure precise ink application.
Tayyaba Rehman
Sep 22, 2023
A digital command to produce hard copies.
After editing the document, he hit 'print' on his computer.
Tayyaba Rehman
Sep 22, 2023
Lithograph
A print created in limited editions using lithography.
Collectors value lithographs for their authenticity.
Tayyaba Rehman
Sep 22, 2023
Produce (books, newspapers, etc.), especially in large quantities, by a mechanical process involving the transfer of text or designs to paper
A thousand copies of the book were printed
Tayyaba Rehman
Sep 21, 2021
Lithograph
A printmaking process using limestone or metal plates.
The artist's lithograph showcased intricate details.
Tayyaba Rehman
Sep 22, 2023
Write (text) clearly without joining the letters together
Print your name and address on the back of the cheque
Tayyaba Rehman
Sep 21, 2021
Mark (a surface, typically a fabric or garment) with a coloured design or pattern
A delicate fabric printed with roses
Tayyaba Rehman
Sep 21, 2021
The text appearing in a book, newspaper, or other printed publication, especially with reference to its size, form, or style
Bold print
She forced herself to concentrate on the tiny print
Tayyaba Rehman
Sep 21, 2021
An indentation or mark made on a surface or soft substance
There were paw prints everywhere
Tayyaba Rehman
Sep 21, 2021
A picture or design printed from a block or plate or copied from a painting by photography
The walls were hung with sporting prints
Tayyaba Rehman
Sep 21, 2021
Lithograph
To trace on stone by the process of lithography so as to transfer the design to paper by printing; as, to lithograph a design; to lithograph a painting. See lithography.
Tayyaba Rehman
Sep 21, 2021
A piece of fabric or clothing with a coloured pattern or design printed on it
Light summer prints
A floral print dress
Tayyaba Rehman
Sep 21, 2021
A mark or impression made in or on a surface by pressure
The print of footsteps in the sand.
Tayyaba Rehman
Sep 21, 2021
Lithograph
Duplicator that prints by lithography; a flat surface (of stone or metal) is treated to absorb or repel ink in the desired pattern
Tayyaba Rehman
Sep 21, 2021
A device or implement, such as a stamp, die, or seal, used to press markings onto or into a surface
Fancy letters made by hand-carved prints.
Tayyaba Rehman
Sep 21, 2021
Text, lettering, or other marks produced in ink from type as by a printing press or from digital fonts by an electronic printer
Needed glasses to read the print.
Tayyaba Rehman
Sep 21, 2021
A printed publication or edition of a text; a printing
The first print of that book has sold out.
Tayyaba Rehman
Sep 21, 2021
A design or picture transferred from an engraved plate, wood block, lithographic stone, or other medium
Had prints of flowers hanging on the walls.
Tayyaba Rehman
Sep 21, 2021
A copy of a movie made on film or in a high resolution digital format, as for public exhibition.
Tayyaba Rehman
Sep 21, 2021
A fabric or garment with a dyed pattern that has been pressed onto it, usually by engraved rollers.
Tayyaba Rehman
Sep 21, 2021
To press (a mark or design, for example) onto or into a surface
Tracks that were printed in the snow.
Tayyaba Rehman
Sep 21, 2021
To make an impression on or in (a surface) with a device such as a stamp, seal, or die.
Tayyaba Rehman
Sep 21, 2021
To press (something, such as a stamp) onto or into a surface to leave a marking.
Tayyaba Rehman
Sep 21, 2021
To produce by means of pressed type, an electronic printer, or similar means, on a paper surface
Printed more copies of the ad.
Tayyaba Rehman
Sep 21, 2021
To offer in printed form; publish
The publisher collected the essays and printed them as a book.
Tayyaba Rehman
Sep 21, 2021
To reproduce (a digital document or image) on a paper surface
Printed the email.
Tayyaba Rehman
Sep 21, 2021
To convert (a digital document) into a file format designed for publication.
Tayyaba Rehman
Sep 21, 2021
To write (something) in characters similar to those commonly used in print.
Tayyaba Rehman
Sep 21, 2021
To impress firmly in the mind or memory
An experience that will be printed in our hearts forever.
Tayyaba Rehman
Sep 21, 2021
To produce a photographic image from (a negative, for example) by passing light through film onto a photosensitive surface, especially sensitized paper.
Tayyaba Rehman
Sep 21, 2021
To produce (an electronic component) by mechanically transferring a circuit or circuit pattern onto a nonconductive surface.
Tayyaba Rehman
Sep 21, 2021
To produce something in printed form by means of a printing press or other reproduction process.
Tayyaba Rehman
Sep 21, 2021
To produce or receive an impression, marking, or image
The negative printed poorly.
Tayyaba Rehman
Sep 21, 2021
Published or reproduced by printing, especially in contrast to electronic publication
A print newsletter.
Tayyaba Rehman
Sep 21, 2021
Relating to or involved in media based on printing, especially newspapers and magazines
A print journalist.
Tayyaba Rehman
Sep 21, 2021
Of, relating to, or writing for printed publications.
A print edition of a book
Tayyaba Rehman
Sep 21, 2021
(transitive) To produce one or more copies of a text or image on a surface, especially by machine; often used with out or off: print out, print off.
Print the draft double-spaced so we can mark changes between the lines.
Tayyaba Rehman
Sep 21, 2021
To produce a microchip (an integrated circuit) in a process resembling the printing of an image.
The circuitry is printed onto the semiconductor surface.
Tayyaba Rehman
Sep 21, 2021
(ambitransitive) To write very clearly, especially, to write without connecting the letters as in cursive.
Print your name here and sign below.
I'm only in grade 2, so I only know how to print.
Tayyaba Rehman
Sep 21, 2021
(ambitransitive) To publish in a book, newspaper, etc.
How could they print an unfounded rumour like that?
Tayyaba Rehman
Sep 21, 2021
(transitive) To stamp or impress (something) with coloured figures or patterns.
To print calico
Tayyaba Rehman
Sep 21, 2021
(transitive) To fix or impress, as a stamp, mark, character, idea, etc., into or upon something.
Tayyaba Rehman
Sep 21, 2021
(transitive) To stamp something in or upon; to make an impression or mark upon by pressure, or as by pressure.
Tayyaba Rehman
Sep 21, 2021
To produce an observable value.
On March 16, 2020, the S&P printed at 2,386.13, one of the worst drops in history.
Tayyaba Rehman
Sep 21, 2021
(uncountable) Books and other material created by printing presses, considered collectively or as a medium.
Three citations are required for each meaning, including one in print.
TV and the Internet haven't killed print.
Tayyaba Rehman
Sep 21, 2021
(uncountable) Clear handwriting, especially, writing without connected letters as in cursive.
Write in print using block letters.
Tayyaba Rehman
Sep 21, 2021
(uncountable) The letters forming the text of a document.
The print is too small for me to read.
Tayyaba Rehman
Sep 21, 2021
A visible impression on a surface.
Using a crayon, the girl made a print of the leaf under the page.
Tayyaba Rehman
Sep 21, 2021
(visual art) A picture that was created in multiple copies by printing.
Tayyaba Rehman
Sep 21, 2021
(photography) A photograph that has been printed onto paper from the negative.
Tayyaba Rehman
Sep 21, 2021
To fix or impress, as a stamp, mark, character, idea, etc., into or upon something.
A look will print a thought that never may remove.
Upon his breastplate he beholds a dint,Which in that field young Edward's sword did print.
Perhaps some footsteps printed in the clay.
Tayyaba Rehman
Sep 21, 2021
To stamp something in or upon; to make an impression or mark upon by pressure, or as by pressure.
Forth on his fiery steed betimes he rode,That scarcely prints the turf on which he trod.
Tayyaba Rehman
Sep 21, 2021
To strike off an impression or impressions of, from type, or from stereotype, electrotype, or engraved plates, or the like; in a wider sense, to do the typesetting, presswork, etc., of (a book or other publication); as, to print books, newspapers, pictures; to print an edition of a book.
Tayyaba Rehman
Sep 21, 2021
To stamp or impress with colored figures or patterns; as, to print calico.
Tayyaba Rehman
Sep 21, 2021
To take (a copy, a positive picture, etc.), from a negative, a transparent drawing, or the like, by the action of light upon a sensitized surface.
Tayyaba Rehman
Sep 21, 2021
To use or practice the art of typography; to take impressions of letters, figures, or electrotypes, engraved plates, or the like.
Tayyaba Rehman
Sep 21, 2021
To publish a book or an article.
From the moment he prints, he must except to hear no more truth.
Tayyaba Rehman
Sep 21, 2021
A mark made by impression; a line, character, figure, or indentation, made by the pressure of one thing on another; as, the print of teeth or nails in flesh; the print of the foot in sand or snow.
Where print of human feet was never seen.
Tayyaba Rehman
Sep 21, 2021
A stamp or die for molding or impressing an ornamental design upon an object; as, a butter print.
Tayyaba Rehman
Sep 21, 2021
That which receives an impression, as from a stamp or mold; as, a print of butter.
Tayyaba Rehman
Sep 21, 2021
Printed letters; the impression taken from type, as to excellence, form, size, etc.; as, small print; large print; this line is in print.
Tayyaba Rehman
Sep 21, 2021
The result of the printing process;
I want to see it in black and white
Tayyaba Rehman
Sep 21, 2021
A visible indication made on a surface;
Some previous reader had covered the pages with dozens of marks
Paw prints were everywhere
Tayyaba Rehman
Sep 21, 2021
A fabric with a dyed pattern pressed onto it (usually by engraved rollers)
Tayyaba Rehman
Sep 21, 2021
Put into print;
The newspaper published the news of the royal couple's divorce
These news should not be printed
Tayyaba Rehman
Sep 21, 2021
A mark made by pressing something on a surface.
The muddy footprint was a clear print of someone's shoe.
Tayyaba Rehman
Sep 22, 2023
To produce multiple copies using a machine.
She decided to print 100 invitations for the event.
Tayyaba Rehman
Sep 22, 2023
FAQs
What is a lithograph?
A lithograph is a specific printmaking technique using limestone or metal plates.
Tayyaba Rehman
Oct 09, 2023
Are there other printmaking techniques aside from lithography?
Yes, there are many, including etching, woodcut, and screen printing.
Tayyaba Rehman
Oct 09, 2023
Is every lithograph considered original artwork?
Typically, lithographs are considered original as the artist often draws directly onto the plate.
Tayyaba Rehman
Oct 09, 2023
What materials can be used for the lithograph process?
Traditionally, limestone is used, but metal plates are also common in modern lithography.
Tayyaba Rehman
Oct 09, 2023
How does a print differ from a lithograph?
Print is a general term for an image or text reproduced from a template, while lithograph specifies a particular printmaking process.
Tayyaba Rehman
Oct 09, 2023
Why might a lithograph be more valuable than other prints?
Lithographs are often limited editions and directly linked to an artist's hand, adding to their value.
Tayyaba Rehman
Oct 09, 2023
Which might be more expensive: a lithograph or a digitally printed reproduction?
Typically, a lithograph will hold more value, especially if it's an original and limited edition.
Tayyaba Rehman
Oct 09, 2023
Do all prints hold the same value?
No, the value of a print can vary based on its technique, rarity, and whether it's an original or reproduction.
Tayyaba Rehman
Oct 09, 2023
Can the term "print" refer to patterns on fabric?
Yes, "print" can denote patterns or designs on materials, like a leopard print.
Tayyaba Rehman
Oct 09, 2023
How do artists decide on the edition size for lithographs?
The edition size is at the artist's discretion and can be influenced by demand, exclusivity, and other factors.
Tayyaba Rehman
Oct 09, 2023
How is the image transferred in lithography?
In lithography, an image is drawn onto a plate with a greasy medium, which then repels water-based ink except where the image is drawn.
Tayyaba Rehman
Oct 09, 2023
Is the term "print" limited to art?
No, "print" has a broad usage, including printed documents, photos, and patterns on fabrics.
Tayyaba Rehman
Oct 09, 2023
Is lithography a modern or ancient technique?
Lithography was invented in the late 18th century, making it relatively modern compared to ancient printmaking methods.
Tayyaba Rehman
Oct 09, 2023
Can "print" refer to a digitally printed photograph?
Yes, a digitally reproduced photograph is commonly called a print.
Tayyaba Rehman
Oct 09, 2023
Is digital printing considered a form of printmaking in art?
While digital printing produces prints, it's distinct from traditional printmaking techniques, which often involve more manual processes.
Tayyaba Rehman
Oct 09, 2023
Author Spotlight
Written by
Tayyaba RehmanTayyaba Rehman is a distinguished writer, currently serving as a primary contributor to askdifference.com. As a researcher in semantics and etymology, Tayyaba's passion for the complexity of languages and their distinctions has found a perfect home on the platform. Tayyaba delves into the intricacies of language, distinguishing between commonly confused words and phrases, thereby providing clarity for readers worldwide.
