A step-by-step explanation ofReduction Process Linoleum Block Printing-Part 6

At this point in my blog, I hope I have shed some light on the reduction linoleum block printing process.  Since I have just finished black, my second color, I will cut out the parts of my design that should remain black. I always refer to my initial drawing to check my work. 

  In this case, I am cutting out the dogs. I chose to print black second because I knew it would be easier to cut out the dogs rather than cut out the background around them. The dogs also have some white highlights on them from the starlight. The more I print over the detail areas, the greater the chance that I will misregister slightly and lose the detail. 

As I go through the reduction printmaking process, the carving becomes easier. That’s because I have made a lot of tough decisions, and if I have planned carefully, these last couple steps are more mechanical than intellectual. 

These photos show the print with the first color on it and the block with the blue areas cut out.  In my next step I will print black, because I want the dogs to be black.  My third color is a lighter blue with a slight rainbow roll. I didn’t bother to ink the top of the tree, even though it is raised, because the tree will be green. As you can see, most of the block is cut away at this point and I cannot make more prints from this block. 

If you missed my explanations of cutting, inking and registration, be sure to read my previous blogs on this process. I have detailed descriptions along with photos that will help you understand the process. 

If you are near North Creek, NY, I will be conducting a four-hour hands on workshop on April 17th at H’ART Studio and Gallery. I will guide you through the entire reduction process. Each student will create a small edition of three color reduction linoleum block prints.  To sign up, contact Kate Hartley.

Check out my Instagram account to see reels about my process at  https://www.instagram.com/dcastlebabcockart/ . Follow me to see new reels as I post them. 

 In my next installment you will be see finished print, so be sure to 

 Subscribe to my newsletter.  To see my finished Linoleum Block Prints, featuring landscapes of upstate New York, dogs,  and Moonlight Prints,visit my online store at  www.DCastleBabcockArt.com.