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At this point, I have already spent several hours and I haven't begun to carve this block, which will be a 12 x 20 inch framed reduction print. In part one of the series, I described the process of drawing on tracing paper and transferring the drawing onto the linoleum and tracing my rubbing lines with a Sharpie. I keep my original drawing close by throughout the process. I am constantly referring to it so I know what to do next. Things get complicated with a five color reduction print. The drawing on tracing paper The drawing is transferred and traced with a Sharpie I can use just one color of marker, or use several colors. This is a complicated image, so I am using several markers, just so I can keep everything organized. I have begun to carve out the areas of the image that are to remain white. I have a couple hours of carving to do before I print. The two photos below show several carving techniques I will use in this print. For the White Birch trees, I outline the large areas with a #3 cutter and then use a #5 cutter to scoop out large areas. I use a #2 cutter and twist the cutter to create texture in the rock. I will use long lines that vary in width in the water. To see videos of this process, subscribe to my email list. I usually send a newsletter once a week, and it’s full of information on techniques, my schedule of events, and previews of new work. I also post to Instagram @dcastlebabcockart.

Because I use the reduction process, cutting multiple colors from one piece of linoleum, planning is essential. Once I cut something out of the block, there is no going back. I need to know what the image will look like, what colors I am going to use, and the order in which I will print my colors. My first step is to trace the outside edge of the block onto a piece of tracing paper. This ensures the drawing is the same size as my block. I use tracing paper because it has very little tooth (roughness) and I will transfer this directly onto the block. Also, if I have to make revisions in the original drawing, it’s easy to trace the first draft onto another piece of paper. I use soft, chalk-like pencils and 4B or 6B charcoal to draw the image. My favorite brand of pastel pencils are STABILO CarbOthello. Below is the planning drawing for my next print. Along the side of the drawing, I place samples of the colors I plan to use. Then I decide the order in which I am going to print and carve these colors. More on that topic to follow. It usually takes several revisions until I get what I want. When the drawing is complete, I turn the drawing face down on the linoleum and rub it with the side of my pencil. The lines will be light, but the drawing will transfer in reverse onto the block. Then I begin using Sharpie markers to go over my drawing and make it permanent on the block. I can use just one color of marker, or use several colors. This is a complicated image, so I am using several markers, just so I can keep everything organized. Although the image is now on the linoleum, I keep my drawing close throughout the process so I can constantly refer to it. To see videos of this process, subscribe to my email list. I usually send a newsletter once a week, and it’s full of information on techniques, my schedule of events, and previews of new work. I also post to Instagram @dcastlebabcockart.

I am finally settling back in after my well-deserved vacation. I have just started two new blocks in preparation for the show season. My full moon prints are best sellers. I have three editions that are almost sold out so it’s time to get to work on something new. Here’s a photo of the block, so far, and a video showing me printing the first color. At this stage I have only cut out the white areas of the image., which is the full moon and the reflection of the moon in the water. The video below illustrates the rainbow roll technique. I wanted the green to change from light to dark to enhance the feeling of the moonlight on the tree leaves. I chose to print green first because the green areas are in the foreground and they are detailed. It’s easier to cut a detail out rather than cut the background around the detail. I will be cutting out those green pine needles, leaves and grass next. Click the link to see the video. https://canva.link/wnmord6gfp6uyxx The second block I am working on is based on this photo I took while walking my dog. I liked it so much that I am using it as wall paper on my phone. I’ll talk more about it next week. If you would like to learn more about linoleum block printing techniques, sign up for my workshop at H’Art Studio and Gallery located on Main Street in North Creek, NY. Kate Hartley runs a great series of workshops and classes. I am planning a printmaking workshop on June 20th. She also sells my matted and framed linoleum block prints, along with my note cards. For more information, contact Kate Hartley. My show schedule is updated on my website. Be sure to check it out.