Product Information Tip of the Week 9/22/10

[Blick Art Materials]

Not All Linoleum is Created Equal
Traditional linoleum is manufactured with the basic ingredients of cork, clay, and oil which are then mounted to a burlap backing. The term “linoleum” has been loosely used to define the carving plate for block printing. However, most blocks are not traditional linoleum. We’ve highlighted some different carving surfaces and how they benefit the user in maximizing their art making experience.

Traditional Linoleum
Golden-Cut, as indicated by its name, is tan in color. Popular for its soft, workable surface, Golden-Cut is a teacher’s favorite, because it allows beginning students to carve more freely into the surface without much resistance.
Battleship Gray, on the other hand, is a firm, gray linoleum that is excellent for fine detail. More experienced print makers and advanced students alike benefit from its stiff surface for fine printing. And because of its rigidity, Battleship Gray holds up well to repeat printing.

Nontraditional Linoleum
Wonder-Cut Linoleum, is mainly cork based. Cork allows for easier cutting applications. Its light golden color makes pencil marks easily visible.
Blue “Easy-to-Cut”, Flexi-Cut, E-Z Cut, and Soft-Kut printing blocks are made with various rubber materials, which provides a smooth cutting surface making them ideal for beginners. And because they are thicker than standard linoleum, most of these blocks may be carved on either side for double printing surfaces.
Inovart’s Printfoam and Scratch-Foam sheets offer a thin, dense foam surface that lends itself to easy carving or simple impressions into the surface for detail. These foams are an excellent introduction for beginning students or individuals with physical challenges where using carving tools and other cutters is limited.




For further assistance using art supplies, feel welcome to contact our Product Information Department at
1-800-933-2542 or e-mail us at info@dickblick.com. Hours of operation: M-F, 8:00am-5:30pm CST.