This is a 40 minute video taking you through my process of creating a linocut reduction print with three layers of colour.

It is designed for people who already can print a single layer, as I don't go through how to use a printing press. If you have no access to a press, this technique can be done using a baren or even just a wooden spoon, although your results may differ depending on your paper and ink. Please watch my 'Introduction to Linocut' video on Vimeo that talks about the different papers suited to different printing techniques. https://vimeo.com/ondemand/introtolinocut

The video starts off talking about equipment and what you will need. We then create a registration plate and I explain how to use Ternes Burton pins to consistently align your print. We then talk about design, colours, carving, inking, layering and lots more!

I include lots of top tips that have taken me years to figure out.

Using your own design is encouraged, but I have also included the design that I print in the video, so that you can follow along with the exact design if you wish. Download my Chrysanthemum design on Etsy here: https://www.etsy.com/uk/listing/1866588268/digital-download-of-chrysanthemum-design

A couple of links to equipment that I mention in the video:

-      Ternes Burton Registration Pins: https://www.jacksonsart.com/ternes-burton-register-pins
-      Intaglio Etching Inks: https://intaglioprintmaker.com/product-category/inks/intaglio-etching-inks/intaglio-printmaker-etching-ink/
-      Stonehenge Fine Art Printing Paper: https://www.jacksonsart.com/stonehenge-fine-art-papers-250gsm-56x76cm-vellum-like-2-deckled-edges
-      Transfer Paper: https://www.londongraphics.co.uk/tracedown-a3-assorted?gad_source=1&gclid=CjwKCAiAt4C-BhBcEiwA8Kp0CWavTFHN4KRKN-09P49D74SonPcGpMVQZ4jzp4Ja8fbLI-9kfpf6-hoCLhAQAvD_BwE
-      Cutting tools: https://www.jacksonsart.com/pfeil-linoleum-and-block-cutter-colin-blanchard-set-of-5-tools?gad_source=1&gclid=CjwKCAiAt4C-BhBcEiwA8Kp0CVy2Rzi2tdkyfNooahMwntoRBMM8iFNdyP6-Av8vYvM0KjL13zbakhoCrTsQAvD_BwE

All of this gear can seem a bit expensive. I have only listed it all for those who already print are want to ‘level up’ their practice. If you are just getting started it’s definitely not necessary to spend lots of money.

My ‘Introduction to Linocut’ video on Vimeo here, goes through the bare minimum equipment you will need to get going, and explains where it’s worth spending money, and where you can save your cash!

 
A few extra things:
1.    The press I use is a tabletop Polymetaal Etching press.
2.    I use a variety of different rollers, smaller ones when I have mixed more than one colour – purely because I have more of them! With rollers it’s very simple: the more money you spend, the better roller you will get.
3.    I don’t use any chemicals to clean in my studio, just a bottle of vegetable oil and lots of rags. I don’t clean my plate in between layers, I just keep running it through the press on scrap paper until barely any ink is left on it.

If you have any follow up questions please message me so that I can respond, and also so that I can keep this documented updated with anything that I might have missed off!

Best wishes,

Amy Grace.