Linocut carving, derived from woodcut methods, is an increasingly popular printmaking technique because of its simplified process and potential to yield spectacular results. The linocut process involves carving a design into linoleum and applying ink to create prints and art pieces. If you are a beginner, understanding the linocut carving tools is essential. Mastering these can put you on track to creating fabulous linocut art pieces.
Starting with the linoleum itself, it is often unfortunate that many beginners do not know which type to buy for a start. The best recommended for novices is the soft-cut lino. It’s a breeze to carve through, very forgiving, and is an excellent choice for practicing or getting started in the art of linocutting. Moreover, the grey Lino is also kind due to its softer nature, compared to the tougher traditional brown type. Remember, the more difficult the lino is to carve, the more muscle power you need. This could lead to a slip, and consequent injury.
As you get comfortable with the soft-cut lino, you may canvas for a bit more of a challenge. The traditional brown lino offers just this; it provides resistance that aids in refining your carving. Its hardness allows it to withstand more detail, making it ideal once your skill improves.
To actually carve the linoleum, you’ll need linocut tools. These often come in sets, and each tool has a different job. Largely, the carving tools are grouped into V-shaped carving tools and U-shaped gouging tools. A V-tool will give you fine lines, which can be used for detailed work or light texturing. In contrast, a U gouge knifes through the lino to gouge out larger areas. It is also perfect for creating bold lines. Various sizes of both V and U tools are available. A beginner need not get swamped up with the numerous sizes; stick with mid-sized tools, say V3 and U3 sturdy flexcut tools, until you get a taste of what different sizes offer.
You will need another important tool: a bench hook. Granted, you could carve without it, but it is a safety essential and also a comfort tool. A bench hook allows you to steady your lino, making carving a much more controlled and safer process. Going without a bench hook runs the risk of a slip that could either ruin your design or cause an injury.
Another essential tool you need is the brayer, also known as the roller. Its major role is in applying ink evenly on the lino. A hard rubber brayer is the best type for linocutting. Experts advise on a medium-sized brayer that offers greater versatility. A too small brayer increases the chances of overloading the lino with ink, while a much larger one may be too cumbersome to handle.
No linocutting can be done without ink, and it is vital to know what type is the most suitable. It is important to use linocut relief printing inks rather than screen printing or paint. You have choices between oil-based inks and water-based inks. Water-based inks dry faster, making them more suitable for young carvers and school projects. However, oil-based inks provide a more professional finish, are waterproof, and are easier to manipulate for longer periods of time.
Subsequent to inking, you will need a barren or a Baren spoon. Its fundamental function is applying pressure onto the back of the paper to ensure the ink is transferred from the lino to the paper. At a beginner level, a wooden spoon will suffice. As your skill grows and your creations become more intricate, you may find the need to upgrade to a traditional baren.
Now, onto the actual print paper. Beginners are often advised to use cartridge paper. It is cheap, readily available, and sufficient to get you started. As your skill grows, you could explore more expensive specialist papers like Japanese Hosho or Somerset Satin.
Bare in mind that as much as these tools make the job easier and the output more exquisite, in linocut carving, practice is the mother of skill. Even with the basic tools, practice and patience will yield greater expertise and workspace confidence.
Remember, with linocut carving, your physical safety should never be compromised. You should always carve away from your body and keep your fingers clear from the carving path.
In summary, the essential tools to get you started in linocut carving include soft cut lino for practice, V shaped carving tools and U shaped gouging tools for scribing, bench hook to provide a steady working surface, brayer to spread ink, the right ink type, and a barren to transfer ink to paper. With practice, patience, and the right tools, your gateway to excellent linocut carving is wide open.
