Scratchboard is a form of direct engraving where a surface layer of black ink is scratched away with a sharp point to reveal a layer of white clay that is underneath. This initial scratching leaves a black and white image. Because the white layer is clay based it is absorbent and will accept water mediums such as colored inks or watercolors to be used to color it. I use a commercially made scratchboard made by the company ampersand. Large or complicated pieces can take hundreds of hours to complete as every line, hair and stroke is all done by hand. For more information on this medium visit my scratchboard tutorials.