If you’ve been curious about how to start linocut printmaking or block printing but don’t know where to begin, I’ve got you covered. Whether you’re a complete beginner or looking for a budget-friendly printmaking setup at home, this guide covers my tried and tested tools, kits, and supplies for getting started.
Affiliate Disclosure: Some links in this post are affiliate links, which means I may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. I only recommend products I use and love. Thank you for supporting my art and tutorials!
Watch the Full Linocut Tutorial on YouTube
My Linocut Journey (And Why You Can Start, Too)
In September 2020, during a tough chapter of life and mid-pandemic, I stumbled across a block-printing kit at my local art store. I was unemployed, anxious, and searching for something to keep my hands and mind busy. That little kit changed everything.
What started as a creative experiment soon became a full-time art career—without any formal training. Everything I’ve learned came from trial, error, and the internet. Now I want to pass it on to you.
Best Linocut Printmaking Kits for Beginners
Speedball Super Value Block Printing Kit
Speedball Super Value Block Printing Kit (Amazon)
• Budget-friendly
• Includes a 4” rubber brayer, lino cutter with 3 tips (small V, large V, large U), black water-soluble ink (1.25 oz), and a 4x6” Speedy-Carve block
• Comes with clear instructions
This is the exact kit that kickstarted my printmaking journey. The soft rubber block is perfect for beginners, and the water-based ink is super easy to clean up.
Speedball Deluxe Block Printing Kit
Speedball Deluxe Block Printing Kit (Amazon)
• Budget-friendly
• Includes everything from the Super Value kit, plus:
• Primary color inks (red, yellow, blue) and an ink extender
• A carving tool with 5 interchangeable tips
• A 4x5” mounted linoleum block and a Speedy-Carve block
• A bench hook/inking plate
• Expanded instructions + bonus techniques
If you’re ready to explore both hard and soft carving surfaces, or want to mix colors right away, this is the kit I recommend.
Best Paper for Beginner Linocut Printing
Paper makes a big difference when it comes to your final print quality. Here are my go-to high-value options that won't break the bank:
• Strathmore Printmaking Pad (8x10”) – Affordable and great for practice
• Legion Stonehenge White Pad (9x12”) – Heavier-weight, professional quality paper
• Mulberry Paper Variety Pack – Handmade, colorful, and fun to experiment with
Each offers a different feel and final result. Don’t be afraid to try them all and see what works best for you!
Essential Linocut Supplies to Have on Hand
These additions will make your experience smoother, safer, and more fun:
• Strathmore Tracing Paper – perfect for sketch transfers.
• Gorilla Grip Non-Slip Shelf Liner – A must-have! Keeps your block from slipping as you carve.
• Curad Finger & Knuckle Bandages – Accidents happen—be ready!
• Continuous Spray Mister Bottle – Softens paper and makes clean-up a breeze.
• Flexcut SlipStrop Sharpening Block – Helps keep your carving tools sharp and your lines crisp.
• Wooden Spoon or Candle Lid – Perfect for burnishing your print if you don’t have a baren yet.
Optional but helpful:
• Ruler
• Scissors
• Pencil & permanent marker
• Metal spoon (another burnishing tool hack!)
Want to Upgrade?
I now regularly carve on Battleship Gray Linoleum from Blick. It’s a bit tougher but creates crisp, detailed lines. If you decide linocut is your jam, it’s a great next step.
My carving tools were the first thing I upgraded once I knew linocut was becoming more than my typical hyperfocused hobby of the month. I now use a range of Flexcut palm carving tools, and the difference is remarkable. If you're block printing for the long haul, I highly recommend investing in quality carving tools in a variety of sizes to help your work come to life.
See These Supplies in Action: My Full Linocut Tutorial
If you’re more of a visual learner, I walk you through everything from unboxing the kits to sketching, carving, inking, and printing in this beginner-friendly video:
🎥 Watch Now on YouTube: Getting Started with Linocut Printmaking
I also demo a simple flower design using the Speedball Deluxe Kit and share real-time carving tips, transfer tricks, and inking techniques.
Want to learn more advanced prep and image transfer?
Check out this video: How I Prep Linoleum & Transfer My Design
Final Thoughts
Everything in this post is based on what I truly use and love. Whether you’re looking for the best linocut tools for beginners or just a fun weekend creative outlet, I hope this guide helps you take the leap.
Here’s my full, up-to-date linocut supply list on Amazon:
👉🏻 View the Complete List
If this post (or video!) was helpful, I’d love it if you shared it, or tagged me in your first print. May your tools be sharp and your hands be steady!
Thanks for being here, and happy carving!
💛
Kacie