Woodcut and linocut are relief printmaking techniques — the oldest forms of printmaking, where the artist carves away everything that should stay white, inks the raised surface that remains, and presses it onto paper. The result is a bold, graphic, unmistakably handmade original print.
How a Linocut or Woodcut Is Made
- Carving the block. Using gouges and knives, the artist cuts the image into a linoleum or wood block. Everything carved away will print as the paper’s color.
- Inking. A roller (brayer) rolls a thin, even layer of ink across the raised surface that remains.
- Printing. Paper is placed over the inked block and pressed — by press or by hand-burnishing with a baren — to transfer the image.
- Pulling the print. The paper is peeled back to reveal the impression. Each pull is inked and pressed individually.
Woodcut vs. Linocut
Woodcut uses the natural grain of wood, lending texture and a historic, expressive quality. Linocut uses smooth battleship linoleum, allowing fluid curves and crisp, graphic shapes. Both are relief processes, printed from the raised surface.
Why Relief Prints Are Special
Every cut is permanent and intentional — there is no undo. The artist’s hand is visible in every carved line, and because each impression is inked and pressed by hand, no two prints in an edition are ever exactly alike.
Caring for Relief Prints
Store flat or frame with archival materials behind UV glazing, away from direct light and moisture, to keep the inks and paper vivid for decades.
Learn More About Relief Printmaking
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between a woodcut and a linocut?
Both are relief prints; woodcut is carved into wood (showing grain), while linocut is carved into smooth linoleum (allowing cleaner curves).
Are linocuts original art?
Yes — a hand-carved, hand-pulled linocut is an original limited-edition print, signed and numbered by the artist.
Explore the studio’s hand-pressed works: Analog Prints · Shop Printmaking
