Anyone done any linocutting/printing? Advice?

[peggotty]

I would really like to take up lino cutting/printing. I've read a few bits and bobs about it online and it's suggested that the linocutters you can get with the plastic handles (i.e the affordable ones!!) are crap and really uncomfortable. However, i really don't want to spend a fortune on the tools in case the whole thing is a disaster and gets consined to the scrap heap! Anyone out there with advice? Thanks!

I am an art teacher, and have always found those plastic tools absolutely fine. I think the quality of lino is what really makes a difference. People will always try and sell you the most expensive stuff, not always necessary IMO

You can soften the lino and make it easier to cut by heating it, either with a hairdryer or on a radiator.

You can also get rubber blocks which are lovely to work with; I'll try and find some.

The ball of the plastic handle should go in the heel of the hand IYSWIM- lots of people hold the tools incorrectly, so this may be why they have poor reviews.

and for flips sake, be CAREFUL. I'm sure Tethers pupils come out with the normal number of digits after a class, but some of my fellow students did the most awful damage to themselves.

Thanks Tethersend! That's a good tip about quality lino. I have been researching into linocutting for a couple of weeks and had just read about heating the lino last night - it does make sense! How can you tell if lino is 'better quality'?

catinthehat

I remember doing it at school and managed to remain injury-free! Will be careful...

The more expensive the lino, the better it is, really... make sure you get a bench hook.

I never had any children lose fingers, but did have a memorable student who took to it with enthusiasm and gusto and put so much 'push' into cutting that he managed to stab himself in the forehead with the lino cutter.

It was like watching an episode of Tom and Jerry, TBH.

It was a lot funnier than it looks written down, honest...

Seawhite of Brighton are apparently Good suppliers to get equipment from, an artist friend of mine told me.

....And cut away from yourself

You can do it fine with really cheap tools. I've got a really cheap few quid made in china wood carving set that would not carve wood but is fine for lino. The lino was about £1 per A5 bit in a good art shop. You don't even need to bother with a roller at first. I do it with the kids and just put the ink on with a paint brush. If you find you like it you can ask at an art shop about better tools.