Linocut print, framing, workshop and courses FAQs
For delivery and returns FAQs, see my Delivery Information page.
Original linocut prints - FAQs
What is a linocut print?
A linocut is a relief print made when lines are carved into a lino block. The uncarved areas are inked up using a roller and then printed. The removed areas remain the colour of the paper. Think of it like a homemade stamp.
Multiples of the same image can be printed from the same block with colour variations.
What is an original print?
An original print is a piece of art individually hand-made and printed by the artist from a block, plate, stone, or stencil. It is not a reproduction. Read more in my blog, What is an original linocut print?
What is a limited edition print?
Prints are made in small numbers; once a certain number has been printed, the original block is destroyed. For example, limited edition prints are depicted by 1/60, 2/60, etc., written underneath each print.
are depicted by 1/60, 2/60, etc., written underneath each print.
What does VE mean?
On an original print, VE stands for Varied Edition. VE indicates a print is part of a limited series where each print has unique, intentional variations while sharing the same base design. Read more in my blog, What is an original linocut print?
What does AP mean?
On an original print, AP stands for Artist’s Proof. An artist's proof is a special print made by the artist during the printmaking process, typically before the official edition of prints is released. Artist’s proofs are not part of the numbered edition.
How lightfast are your original prints?
My original linocut prints are hand-printed onto acid-free paper using professional artist-grade Hawthorn Printmaking Supplies Stay Open oil-based inks. Mounts and mount backs are acid-free. The Hawthorn ink colours I use have a lightfastness rating of 7-8 BWS (Blue Wool Scale). On this scale, it is very good for excellent lightfastness. Hawthorn recommends hanging prints out of direct sunlight. Professional framers usually offer a conservation-grade UV glass option if you are unsure.
What is a giclée print?
A giclée print is a high-quality reproduction, often digitally printed. These can be limited editions.
All of my linocut prints are original hand-printed linocut prints. None of them are giclée prints.
How do you make a linocut print?
You can see examples of how I make my linocut prints in my blog section Studio Diary.
One of my most complex designs is Whitby Steps. My Whitby Steps - The story behind the print blog shows the whole process from the photographic inspiration to sketching, carving the linocut blocks, and printing the finished design.
How do you make a linocut print with two or more colours?
There are three techniques to make linocut prints with more than one colour. Reduction linocut print, jigsaw linocut print and multi-block linocut print. Read more in my blog, How to make linocut prints with two colours or more.
What is a multi-block linocut print?
Separate lino blocks are used to print each colour in a print.
What is a reduction linocut print?
One piece of lino is used. Areas of the block are cut away as you make your print. Often referred to as a ‘sabotage’ print.
What is a Jigsaw linocut print?
Separate pieces of lino ‘jigsaw’ together to create one design.
Can I buy gift vouchers for your linocut prints?
E-Gift Cards can be redeemed against the purchase of original linocut prints and greeting cards. If you prefer to buy a gift voucher offline, please email me at michellehughesdesign@outlook.com.
For linocut workshop gift vouchers, please get in touch with me.
Do you do linocut print commissions?
I create linocut prints and hand-drawn illustrations for commercial commissions. Projects include book covers, editorial illustrations, marketing materials, home and gift ranges, packaging and labels. Please get in touch if you would like to chat about commercial commission work. At the moment, I am not taking on private commissions. However, if you email your thoughts, I will add them to my melting pot of ideas.
Framing linocut prints - FAQs
Do you offer a framing service?
I may have some prints already professionally framed, so please do ask. You can pick them up from my studio only. Please get in touch.
Where can I buy ready-made picture frames?
See my How much does it cost to frame a picture? blog for details.
Which professional picture-framing companies do you recommend?
See my How much does it cost to frame a picture? blog for details.
What size frame do I need for your prints?
Below is a guide to frame sizes for my linocut prints.
Large square linocut prints
For example, Littondale. Most of my landscape prints are this size.
Image size 160 x 160mm. Mount outer 305 x 305mm
I recommend a 305 x 305mm (approx 12 x 12”) picture frame.
Medium square linocut prints
For example, Moon Gazing Hare
Image size 125 x 125mm. Mount outer 230 x 230mm
I recommend a 230 x 230mm (approx 9 x 9”) picture frame.
Portrait linocut prints
For example, Holgate Windmill
Image size 125 x 175mm. Mount outer 255 x 305mm.
I recommend a 255 x 305mm (approx 10 x 12”) picture frame.
Panorama linocut prints
For example, Millington, Yorkshire Wolds
Image size 250 x 100mm. Mount outer 400 x 250mm.
I recommend a 400 x 250mm picture frame.
Mini series linocut prints as single prints
For example, Yorkshire Coast linocut print, rooftops
Paper size approx 130 x 180mm. The image size varies per design. As a guide for mounting, the image will be within 70 x 120mm.
I recommend a 130 x 180mm (approx 5 x 7") frame. It can be framed with or without a 100 x 150mm (approx 4 x 6") aperture mount.
Mini series linocut prints as a set of 3 prints
For example, Yorkshire Three Peaks, a set of 3 linocut prints
I recommend a triptych picture frame with mount 3 mount apertures measuring approximately 100 x 150mm (approx 4 x 6").
The above frame sizes are given as a guide. Please check before purchasing frames. Michelle Hughes Design accepts no responsibility for frames bought incorrectly.
Online courses - FAQs
Do you teach online linocut courses?
I teach two online courses: 'How to make a linocut for beginners' and 'How to make multi-block linocut print.' The courses are self-paced so that you can study at your own pace at home. You will have full access to the courses for one year from the date of purchase.
Linocut workshops - FAQs
Do you teach linocut workshops in your studio?
Please join my mailing list to be the first to hear about these. A link is on my contact page.
I teach linocut workshops in my York studio. Please see my Linocut Workshops page for details and dates.
Can I buy gift vouchers for your linocut workshops?
Yes, gift vouchers are available for my workshops. Please get in touch to order.
Do you cater for dietary requirements in your workshops?
I offer gluten-free cakes using gluten-free ingredients for those who prefer or request them. However, cross-contamination is possible because these cakes are made in my home kitchen, which is not a dedicated gluten-free environment. Therefore, I cannot guarantee that the cakes are 100% gluten-free. These cakes are unsuitable for individuals with celiac disease, gluten intolerance, or any other severe allergies or health conditions related to gluten or other ingredients. I am not insured to cater for such health requirements.
Do you teach children?
Unfortunately, I only teach workshops for adults over 16 due to the use of sharp tools.
Linocut tools and materials - FAQs
What tools and equipment do you need to make a linocut print?
See my Linocut tools and equipment blog for 10 Essential Tools for Linocut Printing for beginners and links to supplies that sell online.
Where can I buy linocut tools and materials in York?
In York, Hawthorn Printmaking Supplies sells linocut tools and SoftCut lino.
Where can I buy linocut tools and materials online?
You can buy lino printing kits and supplies online at Hawthorn Printmaking Supplies, Handprinted UK, Jackson’s Arts Supplies, and other online art shops.
What are the best linocut tools to use?
Which type of lino is best for linocut printing?
What are the best printing inks for linocut printing?
See my linocut tools and equipment blog for everything you need to start making your own hand-carved and hand-printed linocut prints.
