Linocut printing techniques
advanced methods for creating multi colour
lino cut prints
Lino printing is a versatile printmaking technique that allows artists to create intricate and striking images. Several methods exist within lino printing, each offering unique processes and outcomes. Here, we will explore four methods: single block linocut, multiblock linocut, reduction linocut, and jigsaw linocut. Each method has its distinct characteristics, advantages, and disadvantages.
Single Block Linocut (Recommended for beginners!)
Method:
The single block linocut method involves carving a design into one linoleum block. The block is then inked and printed onto paper.
Pros:
Simplicity: This method is straightforward and perfect for beginners. The artist needs only one block, which reduces costs and materials. Also, less prints are wasted as there is less room for error.
Precision: Single block linocuts allow for detailed and intricate designs since the artist can focus all efforts on carving one surface.
Ease of Use: With only one block the artist does not need to worry about registration (aligning more than one block to print exactly in the same place).
Cons:
Colour Limitation: With a single block lino print, only one colour can be achieved. Using multiple colours requires either a complex layering process or printing each colour separately, which can be time-consuming and challenging to align perfectly.
Multiblock Linocut (Multiple colours)
Method:
In the multiblock linocut method, each colour in the design is carved into a separate block. The blocks are inked and printed sequentially to build the final image. With opaque colours, one colour per block can be created (plus white from the paper where areas are carved away).
Especially clever artists can create more than one colour per block by using extender in their ink to create mixes using transparent colour.
To try this method:
- 2 blocks (red, yellow) , 4 colours can be created (white, red, yellow, orange).
- 3 blocks (red, yellow, blue) = 8 colours can be created (white, red, yellow, blue, orange, purple, green, brown).
Pros:
Colour Options – Artists can use multiple colours in their prints.
Enhanced Depth: Multiblock prints can achieve a greater depth and richness in colour and texture.
Future proofing: If you aim to sell your prints you can keep printing almost indefinitely (or until the linos physically break so you don’t need to make tons of prints. You can keep printing more runs as needed.
Cons:
Complexity: Managing multiple blocks requires careful planning and precise registration to ensure alignment.
Time-Consuming: Carving and printing multiple blocks is a lengthier process compared to single block linocuts.
Cost: More lino blocks are needed per print, increasing the cost of the printmaking process.
“Sallie’s House” is a multi-block lino print. Four blocks; Orange, Green, Blue & Grey were used to create multiple colours. The grey allowed me to capture the dramatic shadow on the wall and also to add depth by making darker shades of the other colours where needed. Greens and oranges were mixed with and without blue and grey to make variations of brown soils, dark tree trucks and hints of bananas in the tree.
Reduction Linocut (Multiple colours)
Method:
The reduction linocut method, also known as a “suicide print”, involves using one block that is gradually carved away for each colour layer. The artist prints the lightest colour first, then carves away more of the same block and prints the next colour, continuing until the darkest colour is printed. The block is then discarded as it cannot be reused to make more prints. If too many errors occur along the way no more prints can be made. This non turning back approach earns it its ominous nickname. Despite the warning these can be extremely fun to make so it you want to make one there is a little more in the method that needs to be considered when planning…
This style can take a moment to get your head around. It’s a little like watching memento in the way that the scenes aren’t quite in the right order. What I always try to remember throughout the process is “You carve away the colour you want stay”. For example, If you would like three colours (yellow, red and blue) plus the white of the paper, then stage one is to carve out everything you would like to remain white (because you carve away the colour you want to stay!), we then roll the next lightest colour; yellow onto the block and print it. We clean the block and let the print dry. Next we carve away everything we want to remain yellow from our clean dry lino (because we want to carve away the colour we want to stay!). We then roll the red over the lino and print it. We clean our block and let our print dry. Next we carve away everything we want to remain red. Finally we roll the blue over the lino and print it. This should revel a complete layered image of white, yellow, red and blue.
Pros:
Colour Blending: The gradual reduction of the block allows for smooth transitions and blending of colours.
No Registration Issues: Since the same block is used throughout, registration is less problematic. (The print will need to be in the same place but white missed areas wont be created unless on purpose.)
Unique Prints: Each print run is unique, and subsequent editions cannot be exactly reproduced, making them ‘limited edition prints’ adding value and exclusivity to each print.
Cons:
Irreversible: Mistakes are permanent, as the block is progressively destroyed with each colour layer.
Complex Planning: Requires thorough planning and a clear vision of the final print, as changes cannot be made once carving starts.
Time-Intensive: Each layer requires a separate print run, making the process time-consuming.
Transparent mixing cannot be achieved only one colour per printing session (unless you find a way in which case get in touch! I love to learn too!
“Catherine’s Cafe” is a lino cut print I made using the reduction technique. One lino was used to make this piece. I started by cutting away the white areas and rolled on the beige colour. I continued until all 8 colours were printed. After the final colour was printed the lino was finished with. The reduction method means this is a limited edition print and no more can be made once they sold out.
Jigsaw Linocut (Multiple colours)
Method:
The jigsaw linocut involves cutting the linoleum block into pieces, each piece representing a different colour or section of the design. These pieces are inked separately and then reassembled like a puzzle for printing.
Pros:
Colour Versatility: Allows for multiple colours and intricate designs within a single print run.
Creative Freedom: Offers flexibility in experimenting with different colour combinations and patterns in one layer.
Efficiency: Multiple colours can be printed simultaneously, saving time compared to the reduction method.
Future proofing: If you aim to sell your prints you can keep printing almost indefinitely (or until the linos physically break or you lose a piece - so you don’t need to make tons of prints. You can keep printing more runs as needed.
Cons:
Complex Assembly: Requires careful reassembly of the block pieces, which can be challenging and requires precision.
Potential Gaps: If not reassembled perfectly, gaps or misalignments may appear in the final print.
Fragility: Smaller pieces can be delicate and difficult to handle without damage.
More table space: You need a station for each colour
More expensive: Good rollers can be pricey and you will need one for each colour.
Other Lino Printing Techniques
Ombre - Another technique to consider would be to roll two inks on the same roller making a graduated ombre effect. This can be used in combination with any of the techniques above.
Noise - When carving backgrounds you may notice the ink still printing in some areas that have been cut away. These can be controlled by covering with a bit of protective paper when printing or alternatively you may wish to include this ‘noise’ as an effect to add dimension to your work. I find it quite expressive so good for conveying power, emotions or energy in people or in dynamic things such as wind or moving leaves.
Conclusion
Each lino print method offers unique advantages and challenges. The single block linocut is ideal for beginners and simple designs, while the multiblock linocut provides greater colour control and flexibility to . The reduction linocut offers rich colour blending but requires meticulous planning and execution. The jigsaw linocut allows for creative colour use and efficiency but demands precise assembly.
Don’t be afraid to try them out but be warned, swapping from one style to another can boggle the brain. You can actually mix these styles together too. I recently had a lot of fun and made a multi block jig-saw print mix! I would recommend getting comfortable with the initial styles above first though!
Ultimately choosing the right method depends on your skill level, design complexity, and desired outcome. Exploring these methods can enhance one’s printmaking skills and lead to the creation of stunning, expressive prints.
You can see more of my linocuts here or if you want to see ones available for sale click below.