Relief Induction

Having worked with Lino some years ago, I decided to use my induction to explore woodblock carving—something I’ve admired but never actually attempted.

The image I chose to use was the same as I had prepared for etching. This time it would be a reduction print… or would it?

I used the reverse of my block to create the first base colour: a simple flat, slightly transparent green. This was mixed from Process Blue/Cyan, Transparent White, and a touch of Burnt Ochre, along with an extender.

Colour mixing.

Rudimentary registration.

Setting up the press. A rudimentary jig was created using books and tape to support the paper and register my block.

Packing proved effective with two sheets of hardboard followed by newsprint and three thin blankets. I did try a fourth blanket, but it seemed to apply too much pressure and flattened the grain somewhat.

The next step is to actually carve the wood. The block is made from Tulipwood, which is apparently rare and expensive.