HOW TO LINO PRINT FROM HOME!
I get told a lot in the shop how people would LOVE to do linocut prints but if only they had a printing press.
So I have made this video and added some links below to help you on your way to making your own prints from home. Also for more useful information checkout the Printed Festival directory.
Ink:
The most important part of achieving the best results is using the right ink, I use (primarily) Cranfield Caligo Safe Wash Relief Ink. It is a great ink which gets great results and it is VERY convenient and easy to clean, all the linos in my shop/this website are printed with it.
Remember that it is RELIEF INK, that you want, there are lots of places to buy it but I think Jacksons Art Supplies always have good deals and a good range.
Paper:
The second most important thing for good prints, the paper. Now what sort of paper you like to print on is a personal choice, my favourite is Fabriano 5, I like how the crisp sharp lines of the paper and the dazzling white contrast with the energetic ‘noise’ of my cuts. I found what paper I like by going to John Purcell Paper (JPP) and asking for a sample pack of papers, they are fantastic to deal with and are always very knowledgable and approachable.
Lino:
Lino you can get from all sorts of places and there are all sorts of types. I personally don’t get on with ‘easy carve’ lino and find it very frustrating to use, I opt for the hessian backed grey lino and you can get good deals at Hawthorne Printmaker Supplies .
Carving Tools:
So I am not going to recommend beginner tools as I am assuming if you are actually reading this you are familiar with things like the Esdee tools with changeable heads. These tools are great introductory tools but as you progress will quickly prove frustrating, for me the best tools are the Power Grip tools, they are truly wonderful and are tools for life. I have had my set for over 10 years and they are still going strong, again by putting Powergrip into a search engine you will find all sorts of offers and deals but I really recommend checking out :
Intaglio Printmaker Supplies (and if you are in London I really recommend checking out their shop)
Both these stores are very useful and also are cave of wonders for other printmaking equipment, rollers, blankets, presses etc.
I hope you have found this list useful! happy printing !
Aidan