What is Block Printing?
What is block printing, really? I get asked this question often while I'm at markets, so I figured I'd share more in a blog post! I wrote about the basics of block printing in my post 'How to Block Print at Home' - it's essentially a beginner-friendly quick start guide on how to block print. But let's zoom out a bit. What is block printing? Where did it come from and why does it still matter today?
What is Block Printing?
First, block printing high-level is about carving a design into a block, inking that block, and then transferring that image onto paper or fabric. This practice is also known as relief-printing. You are essentially carving away the negative space of your design from your block so the leftover raised areas hold ink. When pressed onto paper, the inked surface creates a mirror image of your design. With block printing, you're able to reproduce multiple prints from the same block (although the block will eventually wear out). Due to the hands-on process, each print will have subtle variations giving each print a one-of-a-kind handmade feel. For example, you can see the mirror-effect below in my raccoon print (left) beside the carved block (right).
A (Very) Brief History of Block Printing
Block printing has been around for centuries, with roots tracing back to ancient China, where it was used to print textiles and books. From there, it spread across Asia and eventually into Europe (Library Of Congress).
You’ve probably seen examples without even realizing it - traditional Japanese woodblock prints, intricate textile patterns from India, or even early book illustrations before modern printing presses existed.
Today, it continues to be practiced by artists around the world, valued for its hands-on process and its distinct look.
Types of Block Printing
Rubber - Rubber is a very beginner-friendly material used for carving due to its softness as it requires less pressure to carve into.
Linocut - Linocut is a type of block printing that uses linoleum (the same material you'd see used as flooring). It's typically made from a mixture of natural ingredients like cork dust, sawdust, linseed oil and then mounted to some kind of backing to hold it all together. Due to it's harder texture, it holds well when carving details, but requires a bit more pressure to carve away pieces.
Woodcut - Wood is used as the base for the carving. It can leave wonderful wood grain texture, but you'll need to be cautious of detailed designs and the direction of your carving in the wood-grain to prevent breaking off chunks.
Why It Still Matters Today
So this is my opinion on the matter... In an increasingly technology-driven, fast-paced, and virtual world (ahem, I'm looking at you, AI), there's something special about slowing down and connecting with the humanness of art in general. What I find to be particularly touching is hearing the story and inspiration behind someone's work. I see art as art because of the emotions and experience behind it. Block printing perfectly exemplifies that - it's slow, thoughtful, and intentional. Every time I carve and print my own designs, I'm still so pleasantly satisfied and surprised by its rawness and imperfection.
Curious to Try?
If you’re feeling inspired to try it yourself, I recommend starting simple. All you need to get going is a rubber block, a basic carving tool, and a simple design. For step by step guidance, check out my post here.
You don’t need to be “good at art” to start. You just need to be willing to experiment.
If you're curious to learn more, I'll be sharing deeper dives and personal notes in future posts. Join my newsletter to stay in the loop where I'll also share new work, workshops, events, and more. Lastly, if there's something you'd like me to cover, let me know, I'd love to hear from you.