linocuts

Linocuts are a relief printmaking method in which an image is carved into a sheet of linoleum. The raised portions of the block are inked and pressed onto paper, fabric, or another receptive surface, while the carved-away areas remain ink-free. The result is typically bold, graphic imagery with strong contrasts and clean edges.

The process begins with a design drawn on the linoleum, which is then carved with gouges and knives to remove the areas that should print white. The raised surface is rolled with ink using a brayer (roller), and the block is then pressed onto paper by hand or with a press. Print editions may be produced by re-inking and re-printing the same block multiple times, with paper alignment known as registration.

Color linocuts can be produced by inking different blocks for each color, or by a reduction method in which the design is carved in stages on a single block and printing proceeds with successive colors before more carving.

Linocutting rose to prominence in the 20th century as a more accessible alternative to woodcut. It is valued for its capacity to produce flat areas of color, sharp line work, and rapid production, making it popular in education, posters, and contemporary fine art.

Materials and tools include linoleum blocks (soft or hard), carving gouges and knives, brayers and rollers, ink (usually water-based or oil-based printing ink), and press or a hand-held baren or spoon for transferring impressions. Paper choices range from lightweight to handmade papers; texture and absorbency affect the final result.