Lino Printing
Lino printing, or linocut, is a relief printing technique where a design is carved into a sheet of linoleum using handheld tools. Once the surface is carved, ink is applied with a roller, and the image is transferred onto paper by pressing. The result is a striking print characterized by bold lines, strong contrast, and a handmade aesthetic. The process is accessible to beginners yet offers depth and complexity for experienced artists.
Carve - Ink - Press - Reveal
The heart of lino printing lies in its rhythmic, hands-on process. It begins with carving—carefully cutting a design into a linoleum block using sharp tools to create raised and recessed areas. Once carved, the surface is inked with a roller, coating only the raised areas while leaving the cut-away sections clean. The inked block is then pressed onto paper by hand or with a printing press. Finally, the moment of magic: reveal—peeling back the paper to uncover the bold, mirror-image print beneath. Each step is tactile, meditative, and uniquely satisfying.
A brief history of lino cutting
Lino printing originated in the early 20th century as an offshoot of traditional woodcut techniques. Linoleum, originally developed as a flooring material in the 1860s, was discovered by artists to be a softer and more pliable alternative to wood for relief printing. Unlike wood, it had no grain, making it easier to carve and ideal for bold, graphic work.
The technique gained popularity among early modernist artists, particularly within the German Expressionist movement. Notably, artists such as Pablo Picasso and Henri Matisse experimented with linocuts in the mid-20th century, pushing the boundaries of the medium with innovative color layering and reduction printing techniques.
Today, lino printing continues to be celebrated for its tactile nature, accessibility, and striking visual results. It remains a favorite among contemporary printmakers for both its expressive possibilities and its rich artistic heritage.
✨ A relief technique
Lino printing, short for linoleum block printing, is a relief technique where designs are hand-carved into soft linoleum sheets, inked with rollers, and transferred to paper using hand pressure or a press. It’s a versatile process, known for its bold textures and clean lines.
🖌️ Explore the Experience
Lino printing is a rewarding craft that combines creativity with hands-on technique. Learning the process develops artistic skills like design, composition, and spatial awareness, while also encouraging patience, focus, and experimentation. It's accessible to beginners—requiring just a few tools—but offers endless possibilities for growth and personal style. The physical act of carving and printing is both meditative and empowering, making it a meaningful escape from screens and fast-paced routines. Whether used for fine art, illustration, or handmade gifts, lino printing gives makers the satisfaction of producing bold, tangible work—one print at a time.
🌿 A Word From the Artist
“Lino printing has been part of my creative journey for years, and I’m still captivated by the moment the first print is lifted from the block—it never gets old. There’s something deeply satisfying about the rhythm of carving, the unexpected textures, and the bold simplicity of the final image. I love sharing this process with others because it invites both precision and play. Whether you're just starting out or returning to printmaking with fresh ideas, there’s always something new to discover in this medium. My workshops are about more than technique—they’re about slowing down, finding your voice, and enjoying the creative process in good company..”
– Liz Welby, Co-creator - Art in The Barn
