V cutters are the real workhorses for most linocut artists. They can be used for basic outlines, textures, detail cuts, and more. They also cut equally well on both sides of the blade, making them extremely versatile. Which shape blades you prefer is definitely a matter of personal preference. Each is designed to give a different style of cut, from narrow and deep to broad and shallow. Introductory lino sets usually include a few blades, but if you're buying them separately remember that (with patience) you'll be able to cut away a large area with a narrow blade but not easily make thin cuts with a broad one. Without getting into deep explanations of Pfeil’s naming system (learn more about that in the guide), what I’d recommend starting with is a V cutter, a U cutter, and a wider gouge tool. Depending on the work, you may also want to consider a second V or U cutter. After your design becomes visible on the lino, enhance its clarity by retracing with a fine-tipped pen.

The most basic form of lino cutting tool is a plastic handle which can hold any of the various shapes of blade available. If you get serious about lino printing, you may find wooden handles more comfortable to use for extended periods, and consider having multiple handles so you don't have to stop to swap blades. Baren: For those who prefer hand printing, a baren is the tool of choice. Its flat surface is ideal for transferring designs from lino to paper with even pressure. Correctional Measures: Utilise a cotton bud doused in water or white spirit to eliminate any undesired lino ink from the carved areas.Quantity of Ink: Begin with a minimal amount of ink — roughly the size of your fingertip should suffice for starters. It’s easier to add more ink than to manage an excess. If you can, get a few different tools: V-gouges, U-gouges, large and small. Use all the tools you have, each will make a different kind of mark. For example, a V-gouge will make a very fine line if you use just the tip. If you carve deeper it will make a wider line. Clear Workspace: Ensure you have a clean and well-lit workspace. Good lighting will enable you to see faint lines more clearly, and a clutter-free area will reduce the chances of accidental smudges. Join a Community: The lino printing community is a rich source of knowledge. Seek advice from seasoned artists, attend workshops, or participate in online groups.

Consider using a dust sheet or cover to keep your work-in-progress protected when not actively printing.

Whether your goal is to craft homemade Christmas cards or delve into lino print art, our step-by-step guide for beginners will set you on the right path. Due to its approachable nature, many artists choose lino printing as their introduction to printmaking. Practice Makes Perfect: Like all artistic processes, the more you practice lino cutting, the better you’ll become. Over time, you’ll develop a steadier hand and a more intuitive understanding of how deep to cut. Differently shaped linocut blades obviously produce different types of cut in the lino. Sacrifice a piece of lino to try the various blades, to begin to get a feel for what you can do with each. Try straight lines and curved, short and long, little stabs, jerking the tool sideways as you cut. Close-together lines (hatched) and lines going across one another (cross-hatching).

If you want to start taking your linocut printmaking more seriously or consider selling your work, you should upgrade to a better brayer. And the best brayers are Japanese hard rubber ink rollers.

Top Ten Tips for Linocutting

Wash your hands before starting. Natural oils and residue from your skin can interfere with the ink’s adherence to the lino or paper.

Lino Quality: Always invest in good quality lino. Cheaper alternatives may crumble or be inconsistent in texture, making them difficult to carve.You control the tool by the angle you hold it at. Holding it at a steeper angle makes the cutting edge go deeper. Holding it at a shallow angle brings the cutting edge up. With practice you should be able to carve a continuous line by finding the right angle. If you keep slipping, lift the handle slightly to make a steeper angle. They come sharp out of the box and are easy to maintain over years of use. Pfeil carving tools also come with individual handles, so you don’t have to spend time swapping out cutters while you work. High-Quality Tools: Quality tools, such as professional-grade carving tools and brayers, can prevent many beginner issues. Palette knife: These are great for getting that last dollop of ink out of the tub and warming it up before rolling. They’re also cheap and come in a wide variety of sizes, but really any will work.