Unit 8 · Project 2
Carved Block
Carve your transferred design with attention to detail, contrast, and printmaking technique.
With your design transferred, carve the block systematically — large areas first, then medium areas, then fine details. This is your most photo-realistic carving challenge yet. The goal is to translate the photographic image into a printable block that captures the essence of the original photo while embracing the unique qualities of the linocut medium. Remember: the medium has its own beauty — don't fight it, work with it.
Objectives
- 1Carve large negative areas first, then medium, then fine details
- 2Maintain consistent line quality and carving depth throughout
- 3Take test prints at multiple stages to monitor progress
- 4Complete carving to a level of detail appropriate for the image
Materials
- Transferred linoleum block
- Full set of carving tools
- Bench hook
- Test print materials (ink, brayer, scrap paper)
Tips
- Work from large to small — establish the major shapes before adding detail
- Vary your tool choice: V-gouge for lines and detail, U-gouge for larger areas
- Don't try to carve every detail from the photo — simplify and interpret
- Test print when you think you're about halfway done — you'll see what needs more work