My favourite tools for linocut printing
My favourite tools for linocut printing When it comes to linocut, I’ve always worked with a limited budget, which means I stick to the basics and, where possible, even make my own tools. What I’m sharing here isn’t necessarily the best of the best, but rather a selection of tools that have worked for me and have become my favorites over time. Carving Tools (Gouges) Out of all the gouges I’ve tried, Pfeil has been my go-to brand. I currently use a small 012 V-gouge, a medium 010 U-gouge, and a larger 003 U-gouge, and that’s more than enough for my needs right now. While these weren’t the first tools I used, they are what I rely on today. If you’re just starting out, you can definitely begin with more affordable options, and they’ll work just fine. Papers I love using handmade and specialty papers and I tend to favor thick, textured papers, as they hold the ink beautifully and add character to the final print. However, I’ve also experimented with thinner papers, like Lokta paper, and they can be surprisingly effective and unique. If you’re in Barcelona, I can’t recommend Raima Paper enough. But don’t worry if you’re not local—you can easily find amazing papers online that will suit your projects. Some of them: Porridge Papers, Mulberry Paper and More, Indian Cotton Paper CO or even on Etsy you will find some amazing paper crafters. Inks For fabric printing, I always use Speedball Fabric Ink. When working on paper, I absolutely love Charbonnel «Aqua Wash» and Schmincke Inks. Besides their high quality, I appreciate how easy they are to clean—something I’m not a huge fan of doing! Rollers While there are plenty of affordable brayer options out there, I highly recommend investing in a quality one. A good brayer evenly spreads the ink and rolls smoothly over the carved block, which is crucial for getting a clean print. Plus, they take a beating since they’re washed after every use, so a better one will last you much longer. Check out this detailed guide on choosing the right roller for your prints. Linoleum Blocks I’ve tried many different types of linoleum, from harder to softer varieties. It really depends on the type of design you’re carving. Personally, I prefer synthetic rubber blocks like Milan or Esdee, which are softer and easier on my back during long carving sessions. For more detailed designs, you might want to go with something firmer. Press While there are some beautiful presses out there, like Woodzilla Press or Pooki Presses, mine is a completely DIY project made with just some wood, screws, and hinges. Big thanks to my partner for building it for me! If you’re interested, I might write a full blog post on how we built it. Here’s a photo of it: In conclusion, finding the right tools for linocut printing can make a huge difference in your creative process and results. It’s not just about having the best materials, but about what works best for your style. If you want to learn more about my techniques and tools, keep exploring the blog and feel free to share your ideas! Back to blog
What is linocut? A beginner’s guide
What is linocut? A beginner’s guide Linocut is a traditional printmaking technique where an image is carved into a block of linoleum and then inked and printed onto paper or fabric. It’s perfect for beginners who want to experiment with relief printing, as it requires minimal tools and offers stunning results. Step-by-step guide for beginners Materials needed Before starting your first linocut project, it’s essential to gather the right materials. Here’s what you’ll need: Linoleum block: You can choose between traditional linoleum or softer materials like synthetic rubber blocks, which are easier to carve for beginners. Carving tools: Gouges of different shapes and sizes. Start with V and U-shaped tools for varying line thickness. Ink: Water-based inks are easy to clean, while oil-based inks offer a richer color. For fabric, use fabric-specific inks. Brayer (roller): To spread ink evenly onto your block. Paper or fabric: Depending on your project, choose quality paper or textiles like canvas or cotton for printing. Designing and carving Once you’ve gathered your materials, it’s time to design! Here’s a tip: keep your first design simple. Draw your design onto the linoleum block with a pencil. Remember, the areas you carve away will remain unprinted (white) and the uncarved areas will hold the ink (black). Take your time carving and use the gouge to remove the linoleum layer by layer. Inking the block Next, roll the brayer into your ink, ensuring that it is evenly coated. Then roll it onto your carved block, covering only the raised surfaces. The key is to avoid too much ink, as it can fill in your carved lines and blur your design. Printing Now, you’re ready to print! Place your inked block onto the paper or fabric. Use even pressure to transfer the design onto your chosen material. You can do this by hand with a barren or use a printing press for more consistent results. Carefully peel back your paper to reveal your first linocut print! Tips for Successful Linocuts Keep it simple: If you’re just starting, avoid complex designs. Focus on clean, bold lines that are easier to carve. Experiment with different papers: Heavier textured papers add depth to your prints, while thinner papers allow for delicate impressions. Try different paper weights and textures to find your favorite. Practice your carving technique: Don’t rush! Take your time carving. Practice on scrap linoleum to get comfortable with the tools. Test print: Always do a test print first. This allows you to see where adjustments are needed before making your final print. Linocut is an exciting and rewarding printmaking technique that’s perfect for beginners. With a few basic materials and some practice, you’ll be creating your own prints in no time. Don’t be afraid to experiment, test out different inks and papers, and embrace the imperfections that make each print unique. For more tips on printmaking, including tools and materials I love, stay tuned for future posts on the blog. Happy printing! Back to blog