K–6Creative Studio
Printmaking Basics
Linocut and monoprints
Ash
QuincyBefore you start
- Age band
- K–6
- Time
- 40–75 minutes
- Quest type
- Hanging Out
- Guardian
- Raya · Garfield
- Materials needed
- Linocut Starter Kit (Block + Carving Tools)
- Water-Based Block Printing Ink + Brayer
- Japanese Baren (Printing Press Tool)
Why this skill rocks
You get to carve your own designs and then press them onto paper, making awesome art that you can share again and again! It's like having your own stamp factory.
2034Where this could take you
In 2034, you could be designing the official posters for the Winter Olympics, creating unique merchandise, or even crafting art for new Utah landmarks. Your prints will be everywhere!
What You'll Need
Optional materials for this quest.
Linocut Starter Kit (Block + Carving Tools)
RequiredA linocut kit with a linoleum block and a set of carving gouges (V and U shapes) is all you need to begin. Look for a kit that includes at least four gouge sizes so you can carve both fine lines and broad areas.
Water-Based Block Printing Ink + Brayer
RequiredWater-based ink cleans up with soap and water (no solvents needed) and is ideal for beginners. A brayer (rubber roller) spreads the ink into a thin, even layer on your block — the key to clean, professional-looking prints.
Japanese Baren (Printing Press Tool)
A baren is a flat, smooth disc you rub across the back of paper after placing it on an inked block. It provides even pressure across the whole image and gives much cleaner prints than rubbing with your hand or a spoon.