Linocut & Rubber Stamp Making

Make Beautiful Prints with Printmaker Patrick Norton

In this class, we will make a linocut block or a rubber stamp and use them to make prints. The same techniques and tools will be used to create either a block made of linoleum (a durable flooring material made of natural materials) or a similar block made of synthetic rubber. We will make greeting cards, small prints, and/or printed seed packets. Prints may be made by hand or with a rolling press. 

The process involves making a drawing or tracing, transferring it to the block, and using tools to cut away the parts not to be printed. Ink is then applied to the block, and either the paper is pressed to the block (with linoleum) or the rubber block is stamped onto the paper. We will use inspiration from nature and the garden. 

This class is beginner-friendly and best suited for people over 14 years old. All materials are supplied, but you’re welcome to bring your own materials and tools if you prefer. 
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‍Tools and Materials:
All tools and materials will be provided. We will be working on small (3”x5”) blocks of linoleum or Speedball brand Speedy Carve rubber, which we will cut with a variety of gouges. Pencils, ink, ink rollers, inked stamp pads, cardstock, paper, seed packets, and associated printing tools will also be provided.

Suggested Materials and Tools: (optional)
(Available at art supply stores or online)
- Speedball linoleum (unmounted) – 1/8” thick, available in gray or tan. Larger pieces can be cut down as needed.
- Speedball Easy Carve (“the pink stuff”) – A soft rubber alternative to traditional linoleum.
- Speedball lino cutters – Available as kits or as separate handles and blades. Inexpensive.
- Flexcut lino cutters – Higher quality than Speedball, moderately priced. Available at I’ve Been Framed and Artist & Craftsman Supply.
- Speedball brayers (ink rollers) – Available at most art supply shops.
- Caligo Safe Wash ink (Cranfield, England) – Oil-based but cleans up with water. Available online from McClain’s Printmaking Supplies (Tigard).
- Speedball fabric block printing ink (Tissue) – Oil-based, water clean-up, suitable for paper. May be phasing out but still available online and in some local stores.
- Paper options – Any paper can be used, but hand printing works best with lighter, more flexible papers. Heavy paper and cardstock work well with the press. Most modern paper is acid-free, but check the label.

About the Artist:
Patrick Norton is a linocut printmaker specializing in fine art prints inspired by natural phenomena, the seasons, wildlife, and the interaction between the human world and the wild. Based in Portland, OR, they live and operate a small studio dedicated to their craft.

Their recent work explores connections between living organisms and the non-living cycles, objects, and processes that shape the world. Drawing on a deep interest in science and history, their art seeks to dissolve the perceived boundaries between humanity and nature, uncovering connections and poetry within the whole. Their creative practice is closely intertwined with their volunteer work in the Johnson Creek watershed, which serves as a continual source of inspiration.

More about their work can be found at Earthlight Press.

Members: $60
Non-Members: $65