As an art student at the Institute of Fine Arts Chittagong, I first learned about linocut during my Art Materials class. However, as a student focused on painting, I never had the chance to practice it. My curiosity lingered until 2019 when I joined a typography workshop while studying at ISBA. There, I met printmakers who introduced me to the hands-on world of linocut, a simple yet fascinating printmaking process. Although the COVID pandemic interrupted my journey, my brief exposure to linocut sparked a love for the medium. In this guide, I’ll share my insights and provide a step-by-step process for beginners interested in this versatile art form.
What is Linocut?
Linocut, or linoleum print, is a relief printing technique where an image is carved into a sheet of linoleum. The design is then inked and pressed onto paper or fabric to create a print. Unlike woodcuts, linocut offers a smoother surface and is easier to carve, making it perfect for beginners. However, the material wears down faster during the printing process due to its soft nature.
Essential Supplies for Linocut
Before you dive into the linocut process, you’ll need a few essential materials. Luckily, linocut is accessible and affordable for beginners.
- Linoleum Blocks
Start with traditional battleship-gray linoleum, which is easy to carve. Look for unmounted linoleum, or, for added stability, choose linoleum mounted on a wooden block.
2. Carving Tools
A set of carving tools is essential for shaping your design. I personally use Power Grip Carving Tools, but there are many affordable options available. Make sure you have a variety of V-gouges and U-gouges to achieve different textures and line qualities in your design.
3. Ink
Choose an ink based on your intended surface. For paper, oil-based inks like Cranfield Caligo Safe Wash Relief Ink work well. For fabric printing, try Speedball Fabric Block Printing Inks. If you’re just starting, water-based inks might be easier to clean up.
4. Brayer (Roller)
A soft rubber brayer is used to evenly spread ink over your linoleum block. Brayers come in different sizes, so select one that matches the size of your linoleum block. Speedball Soft Rubber Brayers are a popular choice for beginners.
5. Paper
For hand-printing, choose a soft, absorbent paper. Popular choices include rice paper or specialized printmaking paper like Rives BFK.
6. Spoon or Baren
If you don’t have access to a printing press, a simple tool like the back of a spoon or a baren can be used to transfer the ink from your linoleum block to the paper.
Step-by-Step Guide to Linocut
Now that you have your supplies ready, here’s a step-by-step guide to creating your first linocut print.
1. Design Your Image
Start by sketching your design on paper. Keep in mind that the final print will be a mirror image of your drawing, so if you’re including text, reverse it before transferring. Simple black-and-white designs with bold lines work best for beginners.
using linocut.
2. Transfer the Design
Once your design is finalized, transfer it onto the linoleum block. You can do this by drawing directly onto the block or by using carbon paper to trace the image onto the surface.
3. Carve the Block
Begin carving your design using the V-shaped and U-shaped gouges. Carve away the areas you don’t want to print (the negative space). Take your time and be cautious, as it’s easy to make mistakes. If you do slip, don’t worry — mistakes can be patched up with super glue and re-carved.
4. Ink the Block
Use your brayer to roll a thin, even layer of ink over the raised surfaces of your linoleum block. Avoid over-inking, as this can lead to messy prints.
5. Print Your Design
Place your inked block face-down onto the paper. If you’re printing by hand, press firmly with a baren or the back of a spoon to transfer the ink. Make sure to apply even pressure across the entire surface. Peel the paper off slowly to reveal your print.
6. Dry and Repeat
Let your print dry completely before handling it. If you’re making multiple prints, repeat the inking and printing process for each one.
Troubleshooting Common Linocut Issues
Linocut is a forgiving medium, but a few common issues can arise. Here’s how to solve them:
- Uneven Printing: If some parts of your print aren’t as dark as others, ensure you’re applying even pressure when printing by hand.
- Stray Marks: Stray ink marks can occur if you don’t carve deeply enough. Try wiping the block clean before inking or carve out the areas again.
- Ink Bleeding: If your ink spreads too much, you may have used too much ink. Try applying a thinner layer with your brayer.
Exploring Color Linocuts
Once you’ve mastered the basics of black-and-white linocut, you can experiment with color. There are two primary methods for creating color linocuts:
- Multi-Block Method: Use a separate block for each color in your design. Print each layer in succession.
- Reduction Method: Carve and print one layer at a time from a single block, cutting away more material for each successive color.
Final Thoughts
Linocut is a rewarding and versatile printmaking technique that’s perfect for artists of all levels. Whether you’re experimenting with simple black-and-white designs or diving into multi-color prints, the process offers endless creative possibilities. If you encounter challenges along the way, don’t be discouraged. With practice and patience, you’ll be creating beautiful prints in no time.
Feel free to reach out with any questions or for additional tips — happy printing!
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