Linocut
Also known as: linoleum cut, lino cut
A design is carved into a sheet of linoleum to create raised and recessed areas. Ink sits on the raised surface and transfers bold, graphic shapes when printed.
Linocut print being pulled from a carved linoleum block. Source: RLH Prints
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Linocut—sometimes called a linoleum cut or lino cut—is a relief printmaking process in which an image is carved into linoleum. Ink is then applied to the uncarved areas, and pressure transfers the image onto paper or another surface to create a print.
Because linoleum is soft and easy to cut, linocut is beginner-friendly while remaining a versatile and widely used printmaking process for experienced printmakers.
What is linocut?
In linocut, the artist removes material from a linoleum block using cutting tools. The areas that remain raised form the printable surface, while the carved-away areas do not print. Once inked, the block is pressed against paper (or another material like fabric) to produce an image in reverse.
Linocut belongs to relief printmaking, meaning the ink prints from the surface of the block rather than from recessed or carved lines. This surface-based structure shapes both how linocut prints are made and their characteristic visual qualities.
How linocut printmaking works
At a high level, the linocut process involves:
- Designing an image and transferring it onto a linoleum block
- Carving the block so only the intended printing areas remain raised
- Rolling ink onto the surface of the block
- Placing paper on top and applying pressure to transfer the image
- Repeating the process with additional blocks or stages to introduce color, if desired
Linocut can be printed by hand or with a press. Because linoleum cuts cleanly and consistently, it supports both small, detailed images and large, flat areas of color.
Materials used in linocut
Linocut is defined as much by its material as by its method. Linoleum is a manufactured sheet material traditionally made from linseed oil, cork dust, wood flour, and backing fabric. Unlike wood, it has no grain, which allows carving tools to move smoothly in any direction.
Linoleum blocks may be used unmounted or adhered to a wooden or composite backing, a common practice in both relief printmaking and letterpress.
Other materials commonly associated with linocut include:
- Carving tools designed for linoleum cutting
- Oil-based or water-based relief inks
- Paper suited to relief printing
- Brayers or rollers used to apply ink evenly
Key characteristics of linocut prints
Linocut prints are often recognized by:
- An absence of wood grain (one of linocut’s most distinctive characteristics)
- Graphic compositions that emphasize positive and negative space
- Bold shapes and strong contrast
- Flat areas of color
While linocut is often associated with simplicity, the process is capable of a wide range of visual complexity, including layered color printing and highly controlled carving.
Linocut within relief printmaking
Linocut is one of several relief processes, alongside woodcut and wood engraving. All relief methods share the same basic principle—printing from raised surfaces—but differ in materials, tools, and visual effects.
Linocut’s smooth, uniform surface distinguishes it from wood-based relief processes and gives it a different working feel and aesthetic.
Linocut vs woodcut
Both linocut and woodcut are relief printmaking processes, but they differ in important ways.
Linocut is carved into linoleum, a soft, manufactured material with no grain. This allows for smooth cuts in any direction and produces clean, graphic shapes.
Woodcut is carved into the plank side of a wooden block. The natural grain of the wood affects both carving and printing, often becoming a visible part of the final image.
These material differences influence tool handling, line quality, and surface texture.
Frequently asked questions about linocut
Is linocut good for beginners?
Linocut is widely considered approachable for beginners because linoleum cuts more easily than many woods and the tools and materials are relatively affordable.
Do you need a press to print linocuts?
No. Linocuts can be printed by hand using a baren, wooden spoon, or similar hand tools, though a press can improve consistency and make larger editions easier to produce.
Can linocut prints be made in multiple colors?
Yes. Artists often use multiple blocks, reduction methods, or a combination of both to create layered color images in linocut.
Can linocut be combined with other processes?
Yes. Linocut is frequently combined with other printmaking processes. Artists may print linocut blocks alongside woodcuts, incorporate linocut elements into mixed-media works, or combine relief printing with non-relief methods.
When combined thoughtfully, linocut can complement other processes while retaining its distinct visual qualities.