Printmaking
A popular kids activity with printmaking is to cut a potato in half and carve an image into the exposed potato flesh (the recessed areas will remain void in the stamping process). Then, the potato stamp is dipped into ink or paint and pressed onto paper. The stamp can be reused until it falls apart (or until a tired parent makes it disappear!).
A more sophisticated technique for printmaking and carving stamps is using rubbery linoleum blocks. These blocks can be purchased through art supply catalogs and are perfect for kids art projects when combined with washable ink. Below is the basic tools needed and techniques used for this kind of printmaking.
Materials:
- Linoleum block
- Carving tools
- Washable ink and roller
- Paper
- Pencil
Instructions:
1. Trace the linoleum block onto paper to create a frame for your art.
2. Draw a picture within the framed area on the paper. Simplified images with fewer details work best for printing.
IMPORTANT: Your drawn picture should be a mirror image of your desired printed picture. Be sure any words or numbers drawn on your picture are backwards.
3.Transfer your drawing onto the block. To do this, simply turn the drawing over, darken the back of your picture with pencil graphite, and place the drawing right-side up in alignment with the linoleum block. Retrace your picture onto the block. When you lift the paper, you should see an outline of your picture on the block.
Alternatively, re-draw your picture directly on the block.
4. Carve the picture lines into the linoleum block with a carving tool. The thicker the lines, the more bold the image will be when stamped (due to positive and negative space).
CAUTION: Most carving tools are very sharp, so always keep your hands behind the tool to avoid injury.
5. Roll a dab of ink on a washable surface to create a smooth consistency, and then take the roller over the top of the linoleum block, covering it with an even tacky coat. Dont glop it on, and be sure the carved areas are void of any ink globs.
6. Press the linoleum block face-down on paper to create your printed stamp.
You may have to repeat steps 5 and 6 several times to get the knack of good pressed printing. Through experimenting youll see how much ink you need to yield the best imprints. You can also experiment with mixing different ink colors on top of the block to make multi-colored prints.
When the printing process is done, lay aside the prints to dry for a couple of hours.
TIPS: Try a variety of types and colored papers for your printing. Practice on regular computer paper, and when you become a pro, move onto an absorbent cotton-fiber paper for a more classy artful effect.
Top of page
