Affordable Lino Printing Supplies for Novices
Lino printing, or Linocut, is a popular printmaking technique that features a striking style and meticulous process. This technique involves carving a design into a sheet of linoleum and then printing it on paper or fabric. Despite its intricate nature, a beginner in lino printing can turn out impressive results with the right set of tools and materials. The good news? These tools can be affordable and within reach for novices.
Undoubtedly, your first purchase should be lino itself. Linoleum, sold in art and craft stores, is the primary canvas for your designs. Traditional linoleum can be quite hard and challenging to work with, particularly for beginners. But worry not; you can opt for alternatives like SoftCut or Easycut, which are softer and perfect for novices. These types come in sheets of A4 or A3 size. As of 2021, SoftCut linoleum prices range from $4 to $8 per sheet depending on the size.
Carving tools are another essential. A beginner can settle for a basic set, which includes a few different types of blades – a V-shape, U-shape, and a straight blade, among others. Favored brands for beginner-friendly carving sets include Picasso, Essdee, and FlexiCut, with prices approximately between $10 – $20.
Next, let’s talk about rollers, also known as brayers. A brayer is used to apply ink to the lino before printing. They come in different sizes for different projects. For a starter, it’s advisable to choose a medium-sized roller that can be versatile for various designs. Economy brands like Speedball offer budget-friendly brayers starting around $12.
A selection of inks is vital for your lino printing endeavors. The two types of inks typically used in lino printing are oil-based and water-based. Beginners may find themselves more comfortable with water-based inks due to their hassle-free cleanup. They come in an array of colors, allowing novices to experiment freely. Royal & Langnickel, Speedball, or Caligo Safe Wash are affordable brands offering a range of diverse and rich colors. A jar of ink may cost anywhere between $5 and $10.
To complement your inks, a palette is necessary. This is where you’ll mix your inks before rolling them onto the lino. There are affordable options like Clear Printmaking Pallete sold for about $3 – $4, while a heat-treated glass palette can cost a tad more but offers a clean, smooth surface for ink preparation.
Meanwhile, a baren is used to press the paper onto the inked lino. While a high-end baren made from bamboo can easily run up to $30, novices can opt for a more economical choice. Burnishers or barren substitutes like the back of a spoon or a clean, flat jar can often be just as effective for beginners.
Paper choice is another critical decision. While any paper can technically be used for lino printing, specific types yield better results. Most printmakers favor high-quality printmaking paper like Rives BFK or Fabriano Rosapina which, although expensive, offers superior absorbency and durability. For a beginner, Strathmore makes a decent, economical range of printmaking papers that start from about $10 for a pad.
Keeping your tools organized and your workspace clean is also necessary. For starters, a storage box to keep all your tools together can be efficient, ensuring you don’t lose your supplies or risk any damage. Retailers such as Michael’s or Hobby Lobby offer plastic storage containers starting at $5.
Finally, beginners should invest in a good protective apron. Lino printing can get quite messy and inks can stain your clothes. A simple, solid-colored artist’s aprong (like the ones from Professional’s Choice), retailing for about $10, might save your wardrobe from unsightly splotches.
In summary, it’s possible to kickstart a journey into the exciting world of lino printing without breaking the bank. For under $100, a novice printmaker can assemble an affordable suite of essential supplies—from linoleum to lino cutters, rollers, and inks. With these user-friendly, cost-effective tools at your disposal, you’re all set to start carving your path in the versatile and satisfying arena of lino printing.
