Day 1

In this unit you will design and carve a linoleum block print based on the theme Culture and Place. Your final print will use two colors and will be printed multiple times to create a small edition of 3-4 quality prints. 

Printmaking is different from drawing or painting. Instead of making a single artwork, you create a carved printing block that can produce multiple prints.

Today you will
• learn about printmaking artists
• explore carving tools
• test the full process on a small practice block

Create an Artist Connection: https://tinyworkshops.com/woodcut-linocut-artists-instagram/ 

Intro to Printmaking Tools

Let's Give It A Try! 

Next you will try the full printmaking process on a small practice piece of lino.

The goal is not to make a perfect artwork. The goal is to learn how the materials work.

Step 1
Draw a simple design.

Your design should be small and simple. Good ideas include

a leaf
a simple face
a geometric pattern
a small animal silhouette
a symbol or icon

Keep your lines bold and clear.

Avoid tiny details. Lino works best with generous lines and shapes.

Step 2
Transfer the drawing.

Turn your drawing over and shade the back with pencil graphite.

Place the drawing on top of the lino block and trace the lines. The graphite will transfer your drawing onto the lino surface.

Step 3
Outline the design.

Go over the transferred lines with permanent marker so the carving areas are clear.

Remember

Everything you carve away will print white.
Everything you leave raised will hold ink.

Step 4
Carve the lino.

Use the carving tools carefully.

Always carve away from your hands.

Start by carving along the outlines of your shapes. Then remove areas that should remain white.

Try experimenting with

thin lines
thicker lines
small textures
patterns

Step 5
When you are done carving, let's learn how to print. Watch the short video below to see the process...

Step 6
Ink the block.

Roll ink onto the inking plate using a brayer until it makes a soft sticky sound.

Roll the ink evenly onto the surface of the lino block.

Step 7
Print your image.

Place paper on top of the inked block.

Press evenly using your hands or a baren.

Carefully peel the paper back to reveal the print.

Important Printmaking Ideas

Lino works best with bold lines and shapes.

Contour lines that outline forms usually print very clearly.

Patterns and textures can be created through repeated carving marks.

Think about the entire image when designing. In printmaking, empty or unfinished areas can weaken the composition.

A successful print often includes

bold shapes
clear outlines
areas of texture
areas of quiet space

Experiment and observe how the tools behave. Today is about learning the process so you are ready to design your final print.

Finish your Artist Connection and upload it to your Digital Portfolio page under Section 2: Connections