Step 2: step-by-step guide to making an original relief print.
Above: An idea for a block print is planned.
A block print is drawn up at actual size in order to identify the exact shape and detail of what will be cut away. The drawing is coloured-in with distinct colours, each representing a separate plate, or 'block'. In this case: pale blue, dark blue, purple and possibly another sienna colour. Several of these drawings may be undertaken before the printmaker is satisfied enough to proceed, as block prints of this complexity can take a fair amount of planning.
Above: An idea for a block print is planned.A block print is drawn up at actual size in order to identify the exact shape and detail of what will be cut away. The drawing is coloured-in with distinct colours, each representing a separate plate, or 'block'. In this case: pale blue, dark blue, purple and possibly another sienna colour. Several of these drawings may be undertaken before the printmaker is satisfied enough to proceed, as block prints of this complexity can take a fair amount of planning.