This blog will focus on printing the first color or a four color reduction linoleum block print and what comes next.  As I said previously, when printing a reduction linoleum block, I must print all the paper at the same time. Because I continually carve away from the same block, I cannot go back and print more after the print is completed.  I always print a few more than I think I want.  “Stuff happens” throughout the process; even after decades of experience, I end up mixin

We step into the quiet authority of moonlight landscapes with confidence, knowing these scenes hold timeless emotional power within contemporary art. Our appreciation for nocturnal imagery is rooted in its ability to slow the viewer, invite reflection, and create an intimate connection between nature and imagination.  In today’s limited edition printing, moonlight landscapes are not nostalgic echoes of the past but refined expressions of modern craftsmanship and intentional d

In my previous blogs, I described preparing the block and linoleum carving techniques. I am finally ready to start printing!  In this installment, I will describe the block printing process which includes color mixing and a technique I use often called a rainbow roll.  When printing a reduction linoleum block, I must print all the paper at the same time. Because I continually carve away from the same block, I cannot go back and print more after the print is completed. This is

Cutting Technique: Before I show you how to print, I want to give you some important information regarding Linoleum cutters. The Speedball cutters that I use come in five sizes. I photographed a number 2 cutter and a number 5 cutter, shown below. I seldom use the number 1 cutter because the line it carves is so small it will be lost when printing a multiple color Linoleum Block print. The block shows just the white parts of the image carved away. This is the paper showing thr

Reduction linoleum block printing is a complicated process. Many people struggle to comprehend it because everything is reversed. The image reverses left-to-right and the process is subtractive. Being dyslexic,  reduction printing fits the way I think.   I am writing a series of blogs depicting, with words and photos,  the creation of a linoleum block print I recently completed. I hope that this will make reduction printing more understandable.   When people ask, “How long do

In a recent blog I discussed my  experience as a Juried Artist in The Roycroft Arts & Craftsmen Guild on the Roycroft Campus. When talking to people at art festivals, I realize many people outside of East Aurora, New York, are unfamiliar with Roycroft. The campus is a cultural treasure with a rich history that I will share with you in this blog.   The Roycroft Campus is a “best kept secret” located in East Aurora, New York.  The campus is the best preserved and most complete

Nature has always been my greatest muse. Living in and exploring the vast, quiet beauty of the Adirondacks shaped not just my identity as an artist but also the way I experience the world. I am Diane Castle Babcock, and I transform these serene, majestic landscapes into hand-carved, original linocuts. Through a process that blends time-honored techniques with personal reflection, I create linoleum block prints  that capture the essence of upstate New York—its forests, lakes,

Artists often face unique challenges that can feel isolating, from creative blocks to managing the business side of their work. Yet, many find strength and success by joining groups where they support each other. These artist communities provide more than just friendship—they offer constructive criticism, moral encouragement, and practical help with running their creative businesses. In this post I relate my experience as a member of an informal group of artists in the Finger

Nature’s beauty encourages me to use a variety of cutting techniques to depict the myriad of textures and colors in the landscapes.  The changing seasons and weather motivate me to create a series of prints showcasing the effect of atmosphere on the scenes. The iconic White Birch trees are always carved first, because they are white. They provide contrast to the myriad of colors of Adirondack landscapes. I often visit the same spot multiple times to observe how light and colo

The Adirondacks offer a unique blend of mountains and lakes that have inspired countless artists. For me, these mountains and lakes are not just a backdrop but a source of creative energy that shapes my linoleum block prints. In this post, I will share how two  locations in the Adirondacks influenced my work and walk you through the process I use to bring these natural scenes to life through printmaking. Choosing the Adirondack Locations The Adirondacks cover over six million

There is a moment in every artist’s journey when creativity meets courage, and that moment defines the work forever. We believe reduction linoleum block printing stands exactly at that intersection. Our approach to this technique reflects both discipline and daring because once a layer is carved away, there is no going back. The block transforms step by step, and with it, the story of the print takes shape.   This is where reduction linoleum block printing  craft becomes comm

When purchasing holiday gifts, original art may not be the first thing that comes to mind. People sometimes believe that art is astronomically expensive and beyond their reach. Many art forms, including linoleum block prints, can be affordable and unique holiday gifts for your loved ones.   In an age of mass production, having a hand-crafted item is a rare and powerful thing. It can be a memento of a favorite place, as with my linocut art landscapes of the Adirondacks . An or

Art has the power to bridge emotion and environment, transforming ordinary walls into reflections of the soul. Among the many forms of fine art, linoleum block printing holds a special place for those who appreciate texture, craftsmanship, and the intimate connection between the artist and the subject. Each impression carries the mark of human touch, revealing the harmony between nature, light, and form. Embrace this delicate balance, bringing stories of quiet moments, natura

Explore how the stunning landscapes of the Adirondacks inspire my linoleum block printing creations. As a child, my grandmother and aunts lived in the Adirondacks. My family visited every year. In my thirties I began making annual trips to climb a mountain and take photos. I love to hike and my dogs are always willing travel partners. Trailhead in the Adirondacks Linoleum Block Print I am partial to White Birch trees; I think they are beautiful are and they provide a wonderfu

Adirondack Lake in Autumn Linoleum Block Print Autumn is my favorite season. One of the joys of living in upstate New York is watching the leaves turn from green to a variety of golds, oranges and reds. For forty-five years I have created reduction Linoleum Block Prints celebrating Autumn. I am continually inspired by the beauty of ever-changing nature. One question I frequently get is "How do you get so many colors in your Linoleum Block Prints?" My go to technique for addin

Do you want to preserve a memory of your favorite vacation spot or your camp? Do you have a spot on your wall that you just can't find...

Hi All, For those of you who don't know me, my name is Diane Castle Babcock and I have created reduction process linoleum block prints...