Printmaking FAQs
For delivery and returns FAQ, see my Delivery Information page.
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 variations in colour.
What is an original print?
This is an artwork that has been individually hand-made and printed by the artist from a block, plate, stone or stencil. This is not a reproduction.
What is a limited edition print?
Prints are made in small numbers, and 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.
How lightfast are your original prints?
My original linocut prints are all 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 ths scale very good to excellent lightfastness. Hawthorn recommends hanging prints out of direct sunlight. Professional framers usually offer an option of conservation-grade UV glass if you are at all unsure.
What is a giclée print?
A giclée print is a high-quality reproduction, often digitally printed. These can be limited editions. I don't sell 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, to carving the linocut blocks, and to 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.
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Reduction linocut print
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Multi-block linocut print
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Jigsaw linocut print
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.
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 certainly add them to my melting pot of ideas.
What size frame do I need for your prints?
Below is a guide to frame sizes for my linocut prints. Read my How much does it cost to frame a picture? blog to find out more about types of framing, where to buy them and how much they cost.
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
Each design fits into a 5 x 7" frame or can be framed with the complimentary designs as a triptyque. 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.
Mini series linocut prints as single prints
For example: Yorkshire Coast linocut print, roof tops - blue
I recommend a 130 x 180mm (approx 5 x 7") picture frame.
Can be framed with or without 100 x 150mm (approx 4 x 6") aperture mount.
Mini series linocut prints as a set of 3 prints
For example: Yorkshire Three Peaks, set of 3 linocut prints
I recommend mount apertures of 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.
hand-printed
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.
Linocut workshops and online courses
Do you teach online linocut courses?
My new online course 'How to make a linocut for beginners' is now available online.
The course is self-paced so that you can study at your own pace at home. You will have full access to the course for one year from the date of purchase.
I will be launching a follow-on course teaching how to make a multi-block lino print in spring 2021.
Do you teach linocut workshops in your studio?
To be the first to hear about these, please join my mailing list. There is a link on my contact page.
Workshops in my studio are currently on hold until the COVID-19 situation improves and it is safe to do so. I will post updates in my newsletter and on my workshops page.
Can I buy vouchers for your linocut workshops?
Yes, gift vouchers are available for my workshops. Please get in touch to order.
Linocut tools and supplies
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. Blossom Street Gallery sell
water-based printing inks and Essdee tools. I’m sure both will be able to deliver by post and possibly drop orders off in York.
Where can I buy linocut tools and materials online?
You can buy lino printing kits and supplies online at Hawthorn Printmaking Supplies, Handprinted UK, and Jackson’s Arts Supplies, as well as 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 very own hand-carved and hand-printed linocut prints.
