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.
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.
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.
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!
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.
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.
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!
Privacy Policy | Cookies policy | Legal notice
© 2024 Golden Serpents