printing blocks

Layered Relief Print Art Project

otter pictureThis is a layered relief print art project my 12 year old son did last week.  This is a somewhat time consuming project (and therefore perfect for summer vacation) which involves cutting multiple layers out of one printing block, gradually cutting away the entire block.  It was fun, and more interesting than just cutting one image into the block since the layers add depth and color.

The tools you need are a printing block, brayer and paint and tools to carve with.  We got an E-Z cut printing block from our local art store, and the cost was less than $3 for a 4×6 block.  The E-Z cut block is made of a synthetic rubber-like material that is very easy to carve.  We used X-acto knives to carve the block, and they worked pretty well.  We also found some chisel blades for the X-acto knife handle that fit in it and were very helpful when it came to removing lots of material quickly.  We used acrylic paints, and a brayer that I had from rubber stamping.