DIY Block Print Invitation

Commitment: 3 hours for 25

Cost: $45 for 25, $1.80 each

Supplies:

• watercolor paper cut to 5'' by 7''
• pencil
• linoleum block
• 4'' by 6''
• linoleum block cutter set
• block printing ink
• ink plate or a piece of glass
• brayer
• baren

Direction:

1. Start by printing a 5'' by 7'' invitation. Open WORD from the Page Setup Menu, select Custom Page Size from the Settings options. Set the custom page size for 5'' wide by 7'' high.
2. Set the margins spacing to 0.50'' for the left and right margins. For the top and bottom, set the margin spacing to 0.50''. this will give you some blank space to apply your block print design. Save and print on the watercolor paper.
3. Your next step is to create a design. You can create any style, but bold design with clear detail. It's important to note that your design will nedd to be in mirror image of how you will want it to print.
4. With a pencil, draw your design directly on the surface of the linoleum block. To help you determine where not to cut, color in the design with the pencil. With the linoleum cutter, remove all of the non-colored area around the design.
5. To cut away the linoleum, use firm, even strokes with the lino cutters. You need not cut too deep.
6. When you are done with the design, it's time to take it for a test print. Squeeze a small amount of ink onto the piece of glass or ink plate. With your brayer, roll the ink out into a smooth, thin layer. Carefully roll the inked brayer onto the surface of your block. All of the raised areas will accept the ink. Depending on how deeply you carved your design, you may end up with little carving lines showing the background when you print. If it is not to your liking, go back and carve away those areas.
7. Place printed invitation on top of the inking block. Using the baren, rub the paper with even pressure. This pulls the ink from the block onto the paper. Carefully peeled the paper from the block and allow it to dry.