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Linocut printing is an exciting craft that has taken on a resurgence in recent years. Whether you’re a budding printmaker looking to test out a new hobby or an experienced artist interested in an old printmaking tradition, linocut print kits offer a fantastic entry point into this vibrant craft. Designed to provide novices with everything they need to get started, these kits contain the basic tools and resources for creating original works of art.

One critical aspect to consider when you’re looking for a beginner’s linocut print kit is the quality of the tools. It’s important for the tools to be sturdy and sharp for easy carving, even if they’re for beginners. Many kits also provide a variety of chisel tips for different graphic effects.

One highly recommended option is the Speedball Super Value Block Printing Starter Kit. Renowned in the art world for their quality materials, Speedball packs everything a beginner would need into this budget-friendly kit. It includes a 4” x 6” mounted linoleum block, a wooden handle cutter, three graphic cutters, a tracing paper pad and even a block printing ink tube.

For anyone keen on working with unmounted lino, Essdee Linocut Set is a promising choice. This kit features five different chisel types, a baren, a 100 ml tube of premium block printing ink, 100 sheets of rice paper, and two soft-cut lino blocks. Another important feature is the safety hand guard that protects your non-carving hand during use.

For budding artists less concerned about cost and more focused on quality, the Pfeil Linoleum and Block Cutter Set is a solid investment. Pfeil is known for high-quality, Swiss-made carving tools that last longer and retain their sharpness better than many lower-cost alternatives. This kit also includes five different gouge profiles, allowing beginners to try a variety of techniques and styles right away.

While linocut print kits offer convenience and value, beginners shouldn’t feel constrained by what comes in the box. Many online and local craft shops offer an array of tools and materials to supplement these kits, including more advanced carving tools, a variety of inks, and even a wider range of different types of lino.

However, beyond tools and materials, prospective printmakers should also look for kits that include instructional materials. These could be paper copying guides, tutorial CDs, or links to online instructional videos. With minimal experience required, even complete novices can create impressive prints with the right guidance.

For example, Jack Richeson Lino Grip, although not a complete set, offers a user-friendly tool for the novice. It holds linoleum blocks securely, making it a superior option to bench hooks for some beginners. This device, which prevents the lino from slipping while you’re carving, can be paired with any linocut kit to enhance safety and accuracy.

Alternatively, Blick’s Essentials Linocut Kit combines introductory linocut tools with instructions to help beginners start printmaking. It contains an instructional booklet that covers basic carving and printing techniques, self-adhesive linoleum blocks, linoleum cutters, a bench hook and inking plate, and high-quality water-based inks.

Remember, the very process of linocut printing fosters creativity and experimentation. As you develop your skills, you may find yourself gravitating toward certain tools or techniques. It’s all a part of the learning process in carving your unique path in this craft. As you break in your beginner’s kit, keep in mind that there’s no one “right” way to make linocuts—only your way.