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Reference.org
Matrix (printing)
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<p>In the manufacture of <a href="/facts/Metal_type/7hLKC5nF">metal type</a> used in <a href="/facts/Letterpress_printing/DybuRsYx">letterpress printing</a>, a matrix (from the Latin meaning <i>womb</i> or <i>a female breeding animal</i>) is the mould used to cast a letter, known as a <a href="/facts/Sort_(typesetting)/7hLKC5nF">sort</a>. Matrices for printing types were made of <a href="/facts/Copper/I8PEE8oX">copper</a>. </p><p>However, in <a href="/facts/Printmaking/9maDzuae">printmaking</a> the matrix is whatever is used, with ink, to hold the image that makes up the print, whether a plate in <a href="/facts/Etching/PM0FmoSb">etching</a> and <a href="/facts/Engraving/0hCX4flU">engraving</a> or a woodblock in <a href="/facts/Woodcut/fg45gSl6">woodcut</a>. </p>