The scratched line throws up a raised edge called the burr which is the source of many of the drypoints’ advantages, as well as problems. The burr holds the ink as well as the groove of the line itself. This makes it suitable for creating rich velvety areas of tone. But unfortunately the burr is very fragile and wears down quickly in a press, so few copies are possible.

It is also hard to make beautiful flowing lines with drypoint, so it is normally combined with hard ground etching for best effect.

Drypoint was first taken to a high art form by Rembrandt.