How to Create Beautiful Block Printing Art — Easy Step-by-Step Guide

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. 1

   Cover your workspace with newspaper or a protective cloth.

2. 2

   Draw your design directly onto the linoleum block with a pencil, or sketch it on tracing paper and transfer it by rubbing the back of the tracing paper onto the block.

3. 3

   Select a carving blade for your linoleum cutter. A V-shaped blade is good for fine lines, and a U-shaped blade is good for larger areas.

4. 4

   Carefully carve away the areas of the linoleum block that you do NOT want to print. Remember, the raised areas will hold the ink and create the print.

5. 5

   Continue carving until your design is complete, ensuring all negative space is removed.

6. 6

   Squeeze a small amount of block printing ink onto your palette or plastic plate.

7. 7

   Roll the brayer evenly over the ink until it has a smooth, consistent coating.

8. 8

   Gently roll the inked brayer over the raised surface of your carved linoleum block, ensuring all parts of the design are covered with a thin, even layer of ink.

9. 9

   Carefully place your paper or fabric onto the inked block, aligning it as desired.

10. 10

    Press down firmly and evenly over the entire surface of the paper/fabric to transfer the ink from the block.

11. 11

    Carefully lift the paper or fabric from the block to reveal your print.

12. 12

    Clean your linoleum block, brayer, and tools immediately with soap and water to prevent ink from drying.

Frequently Asked Questions