How to make a lino stamped Christmas card
Updated: Mar 31, 2022
Learn how to make simple stamped Christmas cards at home.
I've always made my own cards, whether they've been painted, linocut or made from collage. A homemade Christmas card brings so much joy to friends and family.
This is a design I made a couple of years ago. I've carved the design into lino and rather than using ink and roller, I have used ink pads.
Stamps are a great way to make handmade cards as you can make lots of them!
You will need
Lino tools
Soft cut or easy carve lino
Ink pad
Blank cards
Knife or scissors, cutting matt, pens and pencils.
Optional: tracing paper, blocks to mount stamps onto and double sided tape.
Creative imagination!
Step 1
Draw or transfer your design onto the lino with a pencil.
Remember your design needs to be in reverse on the lino.
Top Tip: I use tracing paper to flip the design. By rubbing the reverse of the paper the carbon will transfer onto your lino.
If it helps, go over your design with a permanent marker.
Step 2
Begin to carve out the design.
IMPORTANT: The blades on the lino tools are sharp. Ensure you are always cutting away from your supporting hand.
Step 3
Cut out your design with a knife or scissors.
If you prefer you can remove the area around your design with lino tools and roughly cut out the shape afterwards.
Step 4
You’re now ready to stamp your design using an ink pad.
Top Tip: I find it easier to stick the lino stamps onto blocks with double sided tape.
Christmas wrapping paper
You could also use the stamp to make wrapping handmade wrapping paper?
Feeling inspired? Share your ideas?
If I’ve inspired you to get creative this Christmas please do share. Tag me on Facebook and Instagram @MichelleHughesDesign or Twitter @Design_York or use the hashtags #MichelleHughesDesign
I'd love to create an online gallery for all your creations. Anonymous of course. If you'd like your's adding please contact me via email.
Online Linocut Courses
If you would like to take linocutting a step further, see my online course.
Learn how to make your own linocut prints at home on my new linocut online course.
You will learn how to carve a variety of mark making techniques and print your design by hand. Detailed step by step guides and video tutorials will guide you through each stage to make your very own linocut print.