Linocut Prints

WHAT IS LINOCUT PRINTMAKING?

A linocut is hand-carved linoleum that is inked and stamped against a surface creating an imprint of the carved design. This is often called a relief print. Each piece has it’s own original markings or “holidays” which make every print unique.

Artist linoleum is a compound material of solidified linseed oil and pine resin mixed with particles like saw dust and backed with a heavy-duty fabric, such as burlap.  It’s smooth surface can be cut into using woodcutting tools, creating an area of relief that takes the ink, much like a woodblock. After a linoleum block is cut, it is inked with a brayer. I press by hand, but linocuts are often run through a press onto the paper or fabric to make the print.