Return strokeā is also a more broadly applied term referring to the back and forth zigzag line commonly seen in drawings and certain printmaking techniques. It is important to appreciate that when handling a drawing implement such as pencil or pen, or a printmaking tool such as a drypoint needle or etching needle, the tool can be moved freely in every direction and produce a truly continuous zigzag line. When engraving, the hand cannot move freely in every direction and typically the burin (or gravure) is only pushed in one direction; change in direction is accomplished by turning or shifting the plate with the other hand.