Simple Printmaking Technique

stamping tools / By /

Sometimes simple is the most powerful and has the most impact. Think of famous logos, Nike, Apple and Amazon.

tiny hand made stamps for repeat printing

I like to use inexpensive and everyday items in my printmaking process as well. So for this easy printmaking process I used:

  • set of smooth sided alphabet blocks $1
  • Sticky back foam
  • scisosrs
  • pencil
  • waterbed colored markers

sketchbook to develop ideas for printmaking

I traced the block and did a bunch of sketches while I was watching TV. But these sketches were to complex for me to cut out of the easy to use sticky back foam. I had to go even simpler!

Hand stamped pattern

I learned a lot about simplifying my marks:

  • Use the edge of the block for reference
  • If it is too complex, just remove the foam and start over
  • Think about shapes
  • Think about how they can fit together
  • Use the negative and positive shapes.

homemade foam stamp

If you would like to explore added stamped marks to your papers or prints and creating some printed gifts, then check out the details of the new online printmaking course, Printed Gifts, get the Free origami Box tutorial too.

Related posts:

    Print big and small with soft relief plates
    Mark Making as a process
    Are you thinking about making holiday gifts?
    Simple tools – bold marks

4 thoughts on “Simple Printmaking Technique”

  2. Alex Greenberg

    Dear Linda,
    My printmaking has been recently neglected and I feel the loss. I love getting your notes as I feel getting back to art is still a possibility when I see your name.
    You are very generous and I appreciate it!! Hope your own work grows abundantly as you share!
    Alex

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