How to Block Print on Paper — Easy Step-by-Step Guide
Discover the joy of block printing on paper! This fun, screen-free activity lets you create beautiful, custom designs with simple tools and materials.
Quick answer
To make block prints on paper, you need carving tools, linoleum blocks, ink, and paper, taking about 60 minutes. Start by carving your design. This beginner-friendly activity has 10 steps and is perfect for families and kids aged 6+.
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What you need
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Step-by-Step Instructions
- 1
Cover your workspace with newspaper or a protective cloth.
- 2
Draw your design onto a piece of tracing paper using a pencil.
- 3
Flip the tracing paper over and place it design-side down onto your carving block.
- 4
Gently rub the back of the tracing paper with your finger or a bone folder to transfer the design onto the block.
- 5
Carefully remove the tracing paper, revealing your design on the block.
- 6
Using your carving tools, begin to carve away the areas of the block that you *do not* want to print. Remember, anything you carve away will be white in your print.
- 7
Load a small amount of block printing ink onto your ink tray or palette.
- 8
Roll the brayer evenly over the ink until it's coated with a thin, consistent layer.
- 9
Roll the inked brayer over your carved block, ensuring all raised surfaces are covered with ink.
- 10
Carefully place your paper onto the inked block, aligning it as desired.
- 11
Gently rub the back of the paper with your hands or a brayer to transfer the ink from the block to the paper.
- 12
Carefully lift the paper from the block to reveal your print.
- 13
Clean your carving tools and block immediately with a damp cloth or paper towels to prevent ink from drying.
- 14
Allow your prints to dry completely before handling or stacking.
Tips & Troubleshooting
- 1Start with a simple design for your first block printing project. Bold shapes and clear lines work best.
- 2When carving, always cut away from yourself to avoid injury. Use shallow cuts first and deepen them as needed.
- 3For a more even ink application, roll the brayer back and forth on the ink tray several times before applying it to the block.
- 4Experiment with different types of paper to see how they affect the print. Thicker papers can handle more ink.
- 5To create multiple prints of the same design, ensure you re-ink the block thoroughly for each impression.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of paper is best for block printing?
Cardstock, drawing paper, or specialized printmaking paper work well. Thicker papers are generally better as they can absorb more ink without tearing and produce a crisper print.
Can I use regular paint for block printing?
It's best to use specialized block printing ink. Regular paints can be too thick or too thin, and may not adhere properly to the block or transfer well to the paper.
How do I clean block printing ink off my hands?
Water-based block printing inks are usually easy to clean. Use a damp cloth or paper towels with a little soap and water. For stubborn ink, a gentle hand soap or even vegetable oil can help.
How can I make my block prints look more professional?
Achieve professional results by using a good quality carving block and ink, ensuring even ink application with a brayer, and pressing firmly and evenly onto the paper. Practice makes perfect!
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