A form of Printmaking and a traditional intaglio printmaking process that is envolves etching that produces a pencil drawing-like effect for printingmaking. The ground is a mixture of wax, rosin and bitumen. For the softground process the portion of wax is higher. Paper (brown wrapping paper is fine) is put over the plate, the drawing over that and the printmaker draws over his drawing with a pen or pencil. When the paper is pulled off the plate the fibers of the paper pull the ground with it where pressure had been applied and this can be put in acid to produce the printable plate.

For further links & information on Softground Etching see: Printmaking Artists, Printmaking Papersor Printmaking Supplies.