Linoleum block printing, otherwise known as linocut, is a method that delivers high-quality, artistic prints. It involves carving images onto linoleum blocks and applying ink onto the carved surfaces, then pressing onto paper or fabric. This process, particularly the carving aspect, requires special attention to the cutting surface used. This article explores the best surfaces for cutting linoleum blocks, providing insights on the top choices to promote safety, efficiency, and creativity.
1. Self-healing Cutting Mats
Arguably, self-healing cutting mats are the finest surfaces for cutting linoleum blocks. They repair themselves after each cut, thus prolonging their lifespan and offering great value for money. They are typically made from tiny pieces of flexible plastic, tightly compressed to form a solid, yet flexible block that effectively absorbs cuts without creating a permanent groove. This unique property enables them to handle countless cuts while maintaining their surface integrity.
Self-healing mats come in several sizes, from as small as A4 paper size to much larger dimensions. They are also available in different thickness levels, presenting greater flexibility for linocut artists. Probably the greatest advantage of self-healing mats is their grid lines that help align the linoleum blocks properly, leading to more precise and neat cuts.
2. Tempered Glass Cutting Boards
Tempered glass cutting boards, although not traditionally used in linocut, possess properties that make them suitable for cutting linoleum blocks. For starters, they are incredibly sturdy and durable. A tempered glass board can last for many years if used correctly, making it a budget-friendly option.
Additionally, tempered glass boards don’t wear down or degrade over time. Unlike wooden boards, they don’t develop grooves that can trap small fragments of the linoleum. This ensures that your workspace remains clean, allowing for more precise cuts. Importantly, tempered glass boards are easy to clean, reducing cleanup effort and time.
Although they don’t self-heal like the vinyl mats, tempered glass boards are generally more resistant to damage from linoleum cutters.
3. Vinyl Cutting Mats
Vinyl cutting mats are flexible, affordable, and provide a non-slip surface that holds linoleum blocks steadily while cutting, ensuring artisan safety. They come in various sizes for different jobs, and some have grid lines assisting in aligning the linoleum blocks accurately. Their properties encourage neat, intricate design cutouts on linoleum blocks.
Worth noting though, is that vinyl cutting mats tend to degrade over time, creating grooves where small parts of linoleum can get lodged. This can affect the overall neatness of your workspace and might interfere with the precision of your cuts.
4. Cutting Boards or Benches
Given their broad and steady surface area, heavy-duty benches and boards make great surfaces for cutting linoleum blocks. Not only do they offer stability during cutting, but they also provide much-needed space for larger linoleum blocks.
Cutting benches or boards for linoleum should be made of hardwood or plywood to offer sturdy support that can withstand pressure. Also, they should have a smooth, flat surface to enable the linoleum block to lie perfectly flat for an accurate cut.
5. Rubber Mats
Rubber cutting mats function similarly to vinyl and self-healing mats. They offer a flexible, non-slip cutting surface that aids in accurate, neat cuts and artist safety. Their bounce-back properties offer resilience against aging and chipping, making them durable.
Choosing one all boils down to your personal preference and the demands of your linocut project. Factors such as budget, how often you’ll be cutting, and the size of your linoleum blocks should factor into your decision.
6. Bench Hooks
A bench hook is a workbench accessory that provides a stable clamping surface for cutting. It bears a cleat at the end for hooking onto the edge of a workbench or table, providing the necessary hold for linoleum while cutting. A bench hook can be an excellent ally in preventing slips or movements during the cutting process, increasing safety and precision.
When selecting a bench hook, pay attention to its size – it needs to be large enough to comfortably accommodate your linoleum block. Also, consider the thickness of the cleat and the edge of your workbench or table, ensuring they are compatible.
Selecting the perfect surface for cutting linoleum blocks is an essential aspect of linocut. Whether you choose a self-healing mat, tempered glass board, rubber or vinyl mat, or a bench hook, ensure it allows for accurate, clean cuts, and offers durability and safety to bring out the best in your linocut projects.
