Wood Cut for Printing

Properties & Qualities

Application

Accessories Art Furnishing

Qualities

2D Other

Colour

Other

Sample Information

Date of Creation

May 1st, 2023

Dimensions

10 x 10cm

Culture & Context

Wood block printing is a form of relief printing one of the oldest forms of printing. It was one of the most popular techniques until lithography and silk screen printing provided quicker and more reliable results. However block printing in the 1900s, 1960s and the present became popular it provides a unique surface texture and is incredibly sustainable compared to screen printing which uses a lot of water and chemicals in its process. Masters particularly in India have kept block printing traditions for textile alive. Often processes such as designing the block, cutting the block and printing are allocated to individual roles resulting in a high level of skill and material knowledge.

Process & Production

I start by sketching the motif and roughly drawing the idea for the overall pattern. When developed I use grid paper to lay out the design, this is particularly useful when working out the repeat and where the pattern needs to match. I cut the block to size, I use ply wood as I have an abundance due to other projects and though this is not a traditional material for wood cut in means my workshop is more sustainable and produces less waste. I use carbon paper to transfer the design onto the surface of the block. Using a fine wood carving tool and a hammer I lightly outline the entire block where I want to cut. Gradually and carefully I carve out around the designing working down a few layers of the ply to ensure the pattern will be clear. I do a test print on scrap paper to test and if happy I am ready to print. I lightly sand the surface then begin inking up and printing. See printing with iron for printing process on textiles.