Engraving vs. Chasing — What's the Difference?

The act of cutting or carving lines into a surface to create a design.

Partner technique to repoussé, used for adding fine details and textures.

A printmaking technique where designs are incised into a plate.

Metalworking process used to create designs on the front of the piece.

The process of etching or marking surfaces for identification or decoration.

Applied mainly to decorative metal arts.

Artistic carving on various materials for ornamental or illustrative purposes.

Technique of hammering metal from the front to create low reliefs.

Use in tool and die making to shape or form metal tools.

To follow rapidly in order to catch or overtake; pursue

Engraving is the practice of incising a design onto a hard, usually flat surface by cutting grooves into it with a burin. The result may be a decorated object in itself, as when silver, gold, steel, or glass are engraved, or may provide an intaglio printing plate, of copper or another metal, for printing images on paper as prints or illustrations; these images are also called "engravings".

To follow (game) in order to capture or kill; hunt

The art or technique of one that engraves.

To seek the favor or company of persistently

A design or text engraved on a surface.

To put to flight; drive

An engraved surface for printing.

To cause (an opposing pitcher) to be removed from a game by batting well.

A print made from an engraved plate or block.

To swing at and miss (a pitch, especially one out of the strike zone).

(art) The practice of incising a design onto a hard, flat surface, by cutting grooves into it.

To go or follow in pursuit

(printing) The art of producing an image from an engraved printing form, typically made of copper.

(Informal) To go hurriedly; rush

(countable) A print produced from an engraving.

To groove; indent.

(music) The art of drawing music notation at high quality, particularly on a computer.

To cut (the thread of a screw).

Present participle of engrave

To decorate (metal) by engraving or embossing.

The act or art of producing upon hard material incised or raised patterns, characters, lines, and the like; especially, the art of producing such lines, etc., in the surface of metal plates or blocks of wood. Engraving is used for the decoration of the surface itself; also, for producing an original, from which a pattern or design may be printed on paper.

The act of chasing; pursuit

That which is engraved; an engraved plate.

The hunting of game

An impression from an engraved plate, block of wood, or other material; a print.

Something that is hunted or pursued; quarry

A print made from an engraving

A privately owned, unenclosed game preserve.

A block or plate that has been engraved

The right to hunt or keep game on the land of others.

Making engraved or etched plates and printing designs from them

A groove cut in an object; a slot

A trench or channel for drainpipes or wiring.

The cavity of a mold.

Present participle of chase

Engraved or embossed decoration.

The art of ornamenting metal by means of chasing tools; also, a piece of ornamental work produced in this way.

The technique of detailing metal surfaces by indenting without removing material.

Engraving offers precise, clean lines ideal for intricate designs and fine details, whereas chasing provides a more textured, sculptural appearance that enhances the object’s dimensionality.

Yes, both can be considered sculptural techniques as they involve manipulating materials to create three-dimensional designs, though engraving is often more detailed and fine, while chasing is more about shaping and texturing surfaces.

Care involves regular cleaning and polishing while avoiding harsh chemicals that might damage the detailed work. Proper storage is essential to prevent scratches and wear.

Engraving involves material removal to create designs, typically for printing or detailed artwork, while chasing indents the metal surface without removing material, primarily for decorative purposes.

Both skills require specialized training to master the techniques and handle the tools properly, often through apprenticeships or specialized art courses.

Basic engraving requires burins and gravers, while chasing needs a set of punches and a hammer.

Engraving can be performed on a variety of hard materials, including metal, wood, and glass, while chasing is best suited to softer, malleable metals like silver, gold, and copper.

Modern adaptations include laser engraving, which allows for precise control and is used in manufacturing and personal customization, and hydraulic presses for chasing, enhancing traditional handwork with mechanized assistance.

Yes, it is common to find both techniques applied to metal objects, especially in high-end art or jewelry pieces, where engraving provides detailed accents and chasing adds texture.

Engraving has played a crucial role in art history and communications, notably in printmaking and literature, while chasing has been integral to decorative metalwork across various cultures.

These techniques can significantly increase the value due to the skill, time, and artistic vision required, often making the pieces unique and highly sought after in the art and antique markets.

Chasing can be faster than engraving when creating larger, textured patterns, while engraving might take more time due to the need for detailed, precise line work.

Beginners often struggle with depth control in engraving and maintaining even pressure in chasing, which can lead to uneven designs.

Environmental conditions such as humidity and temperature can affect the metal's behavior and the tools' efficacy, particularly in more intricate work.

Safety glasses are essential to protect eyes from flying debris, and proper ventilation is needed to manage dust and metal filings, especially when working for extended periods.