I’ve always felt that I was doing something wrong when I was cutting out an image in a linoleum block, and I finally found out what it was: I never learned how to properly control the tools I use.

I took some time this week to look up linocutting techniques and tips and everything that I found was very helpful!

I learned that its important to be mindful of the angle that you hold your tool at. A steeper angle makes the cutting edge go deeper. A good way to practice this technique is by trying to carve a continuous line without letting the blade slip.

Usually when I draw my designs on the linoleum I just make an outline and then I end up getting confused as to what I’m supposed to be cutting out. From now on I will be brushing a thin layer of paint on the linoleum before I start cutting so that the cuts I’m making on the linoleum will be more noticeable. I will also draw my image on the linoleum and shade in everything that needs to be cut out so that I can keep track of what I need to be cutting.

I also found that having a non-slip surface to put the linoleum on top off can save you from a lot of accidental cuts and is also a great alternative to the arm aches from holding on the linoleum as you carve it out.

Do you have any tips for block carving? Let me know in the comments below!