Linocut is a relief print process whereby the artist forms a design by cutting away parts of the stiff linoleum surface. Because the ink is applied with a roller, it covers the remaining surface without flowing into the grooves. The paper is placed on the inked block and pressure is applied to the back of the sheet. The advantage of linocut is that linoleum can be cut in any direction, something Escher no doubt appreciated as he worked to render the symmetrical curves of the ripples in the water. Another feature of this technique is that linoleum has a more even texture than wood and thus can produce large, uniform print surfaces with practically no grain.