Japanese Linocut & Woodblock Printing
Woodblock printing is so iconic in Japanese art. The detailed designs and multiple layered prints are so inspiring. The printing process was adopted as a means of mass production of prints. These gorgeous relief carvings portray the country and culture throughout history. In our video, we will discover linocut printing techniques and supplies for artists and families alike.
*Gorgeous prints featured in this video by Margaret Rankin can be purchased at her Etsy shop here.
Tips
You can purchase a “starter” linocut kit HERE or purchase individual items below. If you are new to the process, I would highly recommend starting with the pink Speedball blocks as they are very easy to carve.
SAFETY: DO NOT PUT YOUR FINGERS IN FRONT OF THE BLADE. Keep your fingers behind the blade at all times when cutting. For younger kids, I would recommend using a piece of styrofoam and a sharp pencil or wooden skewer to carve out the design. You can find the styrofoam plates (used for meats and vegetables) at your local grocery store. Ask the deli department for a few clean plates to use for the project and then you can add ink or washable black paint in the same way we do in the video tutorial with your brayer.
Photo Transfers: You can do photo transfers directly onto the linocut blocks. Simply, print a photograph or your illustration and cut it to size. Use gel medium to adhere it to the block with the photo side facing down. Let it dry completely. You can put a little water on your finger tips and begin gently rubbing off the paper so only the ink or image remains on the block. NOTE: This is a messy process!
Supplies:
Speedball Water-Based Block Printing Starter Kit
Speedball Water Soluable Block Printing Inks
