Linocut is a printmaking technique that involves carving a design into a linoleum block, which is then inked and pressed onto paper or fabric to create a print. The process of linocut involves several steps:
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Design: The first step is to create a design that will be carved into the linoleum block. This can be done by drawing directly onto the block or by transferring a design onto the block using transfer paper or tracing paper.
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Carving: Once the design is in place, the next step is to carve it into the linoleum block using carving tools. This is a delicate process that requires precision and patience. The parts of the block that are not carved away will remain raised and will receive ink.
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Inking: Once the block is carved, it is time to ink it. The ink is spread evenly onto the surface of the block using a roller or brayer. The ink should be thick enough to cover the design, but not so thick that it fills in the carved lines.
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Stampation: Once the block is inked, it is ready to be stamped onto paper or fabric. The paper or fabric is placed on top of the inked block and pressure is applied using a printing press or by hand. This transfers the ink from the block onto the paper or fabric, creating a print.
The stampation can be done by hand using a brayer or roller to apply pressure to the back of the paper or fabric, or by using a spoon or burnisher to rub the paper onto the block.