Block printing, a printing method that involves carving an image in relief, has been around since the dawn of time (okay, not quite that long, but almost). You’re probably most familiar with woodcut or woodblock printing, but today we’re going to show you a common variant called linocut! So, are you ready to learn a new skill? Let’s go!
Linocut printing, which uses linoleum blocks instead of wood, is pretty easy to pick up, but like any skill, takes time to master. Fortunately, we’ve found a great tutorial that breaks things down in simple terms so you can dive right in! Ania Alyson from Paper Cut Works walks us through the basic steps for block printing over on Papernstitch, so head over for her how-to. (Or, for the video-inclined, check out this tutorial from Stephen Loidolt of Something’s Hiding in There. It’s about 9 minutes long and covers some finer details!)
One great thing about linocut is that linoleum is a pretty friendly medium that allows a lot of room for experimentation, so don’t worry or stress out too much about messing up. Once you’ve tested it out a few times, you’ll be on your way to making your own block printed artwork, tea towels, wrapping paper–you name it! (Consider all your holiday gift giving complete!) Happy printing!
