A step-by-step explanation ofReduction Process Linoleum Block Printing-Part 7

This is the final step of the reduction print!  I hope you can guess the next step in the process.  I have finished printing the light blue for the snow, which is my third color.  I will cut out the parts of my design that should remain light blue. I always refer to my initial drawing to check my work. 

  As you can see, the only thing left raised on the linoleum block is the evergreen tree.  I chose to use a slight dark-to-light rainbow roll on the tree because the star is directly above it.  I just have to ink that area.  If you missed my blog explaining the rainbow roll technique, click here.

These photos show the block after I completed the final carving step. The finished print is on the right. Brayers come in a variety of lengths. The most common are 2”, 3 ½” , 4” and 6”. There are larger brayers available through specialty printmaking supply companies. 

The size I choose depends on the size of the block and the area I need to ink. Because I  did a rainbow roll, I used a 4” brayer rather than a 2” brayer.  Be sure to order a soft rubber brayer if you are purchasing equipment.

 Most of the block is cut away at this point and I cannot make more prints from this block. People ask if I keep my blocks after the print is completed. I have one or two blocks I have kept for teaching purposes, but most times I toss the block in the trash. Disposing of the block, especially when I have a large, detailed linocut, gives me great joy and a sense of accomplishment.

If you missed my explanations of cutting, inking and registration, be sure to read my previous blogs on reduction linoleum block printing. I have detailed descriptions along with photos that will help you understand the process.  Please use the contact form at the bottom of the page to let me know what you think of this process. 

Want to learn more? 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. 

 Be sure to  Subscribe to my newsletter to see all my blogs, and get updates on my shows .  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.