Welcome to my linocut printmaking blog. I’ve been writing since 2011 so if you’d like to browse or keyword search my archives you can take a look…thanks!
Ink | Paper | Press | Shirts (Fabric) | Tools
I’m working on a couple multicolor linocuts of desert landscapes. This one highlights a lot of desert plant patterns and details.
The image below was drawn directly on the 16”x22” linoleum block.
Carving details in the linoleum block with a u-gouge
I came up with a geometric pattern for the sky and carved it with v-gouge tools.
Geometric linocut pattern used for the desert sky
Here are some Instagram videos of me inking up the desert plants and sky with printmaking ink for test prints.
I’ve been working on a lot of linocut projects this year, most of which feature patterning, abstractions, line work or geometric forms. Here’s a small selection of some linocut designs from over the last few months.
They’re all carved in battleship gray linoleum blocks with v- and u-gouge carving tools. A couple of the lino prints are finished and available on Etsy.
Line pattern carved in a linoleum block.
Geometric design carved in linoleum. The final print is available on Etsy.
Linocutting a design with a carving tool.
Carved lino block with v-gouge tool. This final lino print is available on Etsy.
The lino printing process can be frustrating when things don’t go according to plan - it happens to all of us. I have a few easy tips to help you get that perfect print.
If you notice ink in some of your narrowly carved lines, and these details don’t print clearly, try inking with thinner layers of ink. Roll it on your linoleum block in several thin layers instead of one thick application of ink.
Before you peel your paper fully back from your printed block, carefully peek and check to see if there are areas that need more pressure. Go back and use a little more force on these specific areas, perhaps with the back of a spoon. If you notice a light spot, you might even be able to use a small brayer to roll a little bit of ink on the lino block where you don’t quite have enough. Then, you can reveal your whole print.
Are you trying to print on heavyweight paper with a baren or spoon? If so, try a lightweight paper, which will give you consistently better print results with less effort. I also have a separate blog post all about choosing a good paper when printing by hand.
Inking a Lino Block with a Brayer
