Printmaking 101: From Brain Wave to Handy Hobby
In the studio, shot by Chelsea Mayer.
If you enjoy tracing, carving, and replicating your designs on paper or fabric using just your hands, printmaking might be the perfect medium for you. It’s tactile, creative, and deeply satisfying.
I first got into printmaking while brainstorming labels for my banana bread at farmer’s markets. I wanted something unique, sustainable, and personal—without the waste of traditional stickers. The ability to control every step of the process—design, creation, and replication—had me hooked. Since then, printmaking has become a creative outlet I return to time and again. It’s quick, rewarding, and perfect for creating personal gifts, labels, or organic designs. The repetition lets you watch your skills improve while feeling the craft come to life under your fingertips.
This guide will walk you through the basics of printmaking: materials, techniques, and tips to get started on your own printmaking voyage.
Materials You’ll Need
Here are the essentials to begin your printmaking adventure. Whether you’re going for simple stamp-making or diving into linocut, having the right tools makes all the difference.
Carving Tools
Invest in high-quality carving tools that will last. While beginner sets with interchangeable heads are widely available, a set of tools with fixed heads offers a smoother carving experience. It keeps you focused and helps you avoid interruptions mid-flow.
Budget Option: Speedball Linoleum Cutter Set
Upgrade: Rockler Power Grip Carving Set
Rubber Stamp Material
For starting out, rubber stamp material is forgiving and easy to work with, especially for simpler designs.
Paper
Mixed-media or printmaking paper is ideal. Regular printer paper tends to be too thin and may buckle under thicker inks.
Additional Tools
Cutting mat
Craft knife
Pencils (HB and 2B)
Brush pen
Ruler
Tracing paper
Techniques and Tips for Beginners
Draw Your Design
Inspiration can come from anywhere—Pinterest, nature, or your imagination. Don’t overthink your first design; start simple to get a feel for the process.Carve Your Design
Cut away from yourself to avoid accidents! Always carve slowly and precisely. Over time, you’ll learn to make finer, more detailed cuts.Print Your Design
Use a brayer (roller) to apply ink evenly to your carving, then press the design onto paper. Voila, you’ve made your first print!Repeat
Practice makes perfect. The more prints you make, the more comfortable you’ll become.
Getting Technical: Linoleum Cuts
Linoleum, or "lino," has a fascinating history dating back to 1863 when it was first invented as a flooring material. Today, it's prized for its eco-friendly properties and flexibility as a printmaking material. Linoleum is made from natural, renewable resources, making it a great choice for the eco-conscious artist.
When buying linoleum, make sure it’s genuine by checking for a hessian backing and the distinct scent of linseed oil. Some products labeled "linoleum" might actually be too hard or varnished, which makes carving difficult. I use pink rubber because it’s a bit more forgiving and easier to work with.
Ink Choices: Stamp Pad vs. Brayer and Ink
If you're taking the time to craft something truly special, opt for ink and a brayer over a basic stamp pad. The texture and depth of the final product are much richer and more satisfying.
Ink Types:
Water-Based Ink: Ideal for beginners. It’s easy to clean up with soap and water and dries quickly, often within minutes to an hour.
Oil-Based Ink: Takes longer to dry (24-48 hours) but offers a more permanent and intense result. You’ll need vegetable oil for cleanup.
The photos in this post were taken by the talented Chelsea Mayer. Please check out her stunning wildlife/lifestyle photos on Instagram and on her website!
