Linoleum block printing tools are used to carve and print reusable designs by hand. This relief-printing process uses linoleum blocks, carving tools, brayers, and barens to create illustrations, patterns, cards, posters, and other printed artwork. Because the finished print is reversed from the carved block, letters, numbers, and directional images must be carved backward to appear correctly when printed.
To create a print, a design is drawn or transferred onto a linoleum block. Lino cutters, or chisels, are used to carefully carve away the areas that should remain unprinted. Printing ink is rolled evenly across the raised surface with a brayer, then paper is placed over the inked block. A baren is rubbed firmly across the back of the paper to apply even pressure and transfer the design. A printing press can also be used in place of a baren.
Compatible Materials
Lino cutters are designed for linoleum and compatible soft-carving blocks and are available in several shapes for creating fine lines, broad cuts, and removing larger areas. Soft rubber brayers work well with linoleum and water-soluble or oil-based relief inks, while the appropriate ink determines whether the finished design can be printed on paper, fabric, or other approved surfaces.
Before You Begin
Linoleum carving tools have very sharp cutting edges. Always carve away from your hands and body, keep your non-carving hand out of the cutter's path, and secure the block on a stable work surface. Never attempt to catch a dropped carving tool.
Use only enough pressure to make a controlled cut. If a tool becomes stuck, stop and reposition it rather than forcing it through the material. Keep carving tools safely stored when not in use, and clean brayers and other inked tools according to the instructions for the ink being used.
New to block printing? Start with a simple design using broad lines and shapes to practice safe carving, applying an even layer of ink with the brayer, and transferring your image with consistent pressure before attempting finer details.
