Mezzotinting is a specialized form of printmaking, which creates a range of tonal values by manipulating the surface of a metal plate. Several synonyms for mezzotinting include aquatinting, engraving, etching, and lithography. Aquatinting is a technique that uses acid to create a surface on the plate that holds the ink and produces a range of tonal values. Engraving involves cutting lines into the plate, and etching uses acid to create lines. Lithography, meanwhile, involves drawing on a flat stone surface with a greasy substance before transferring the image onto paper. All of these techniques require a high level of skill and precision, and result in unique and beautiful prints.