Transferring images to the linoleum.

[Former_Member]

I've always used the old tracing paper method to transfer my drawings to the linoleum. I've seen techniques where one uses a toner based laser print, and a xylene pen to transfer the toner to the linoleum. I tried this once, but I don't think I burnished hard enough. Not to mention, that pen was awful smelling and probably harmful to my health.

I also saw where someone used vinegar to transfer an ink jet printed image. This slightly worked, but not enough to have solid lines to follow. I was left back to my usual way of using the tracing paper, but my block smelled like a pickle.

I suppose I could use carbon paper to transfer as well. I want a more precise method though, so I can have high tolerances for multi colored, multi plate prints.

I was thinking of either an ink jet iron on transfer, which could get messy. Otherwise, I was thinking of using a photo resist used in screen printing, which also could get messy.

What are your methods? Any thoughts?

[Former_Member]

Looking forward to being on the team. Sorry I can't help about the transfer methods. I just do a freehand drawing right onto the blocks.
(I enjoy your Rooster in Orange image).

[eevee]

Hi,
I am a printmaker, and I teach printmaking - to answer your question:
it just depends how detailed you want your image on the block:
Few suggestions:
1. draw directly on the block - but when you print, you will have a mirror image
2. draw with a soft pencil on a piece of paper - put the paper drawing facing down onto the block, and run it through the press - your image will transfer quite well - the softer the pencil, the more visible the image
3. you can use transfer paper or carbon paper
4. you can do wintergreen transfer (but protect the blankets from wintergreen) - I hate the smell of Wintergreen, so I actually do not teach this technique
5. you could do a xerox transfer using printmaking ink and gum arabic
6. print from a polyester plate

[baggelboy]

I like to use Dress makers transfer paper from my local haberdashery as it transfers a fine white line onto the lino. Which is much easier to see on dark lino.

[Former_Member]

I use a toner copy-not inkjet-with a transfer medium of a clear Chartpak marker.
Don't flood with too much of the solvent--will wash out details. Keep a dried out marker for burnishing.
Get fast results from your artwork or a photo--but the artistry is still in the carving!

[Former_Member]

I've done toner/solvent transfers using things like xylene, though I've been using nail polish remover for smaller items at home. Ofentimes I just draw on the lineoleum itself after working up a few sketches.

[WoahTherePickle]

I always just use a trusty 2B pencil then same again on the reverse to burnish it. Cheap and cheerful and has always given me plenty of detail to work with!x

[exuvi]

4. you can do wintergreen transfer (but protect the blankets from wintergreen) - I hate the smell of Wintergreen, so I actually do not teach this technique
__________________________________________________________
If anyone does this, please please please wear gloves. Wintergreen oil is a neurotoxin!

I don't mind the smell and I think the wintergreen works like gangbusters for tranferring, but wear protective gear! This stuff is toxic for your nerves.

[Former_Member]

I use stuff called 'Saral,' to transfer my images over, it's probably quite like baggelboys dress makers transfer paper. It comes in five different colours. Before that I used carbon paper but I could only find that in A4 sheets which is awkward to use on larger images.

[nothingtralala]

I usually draw straight onto the block, although recently I tried baking paper as an alternative to tracing paper when I was working on something a bit complicated, and it worked pretty well. I think I'll stick to the mirror drawing though, I enjoy the element of surprise! :-)

[FrancescaWhetnall]

I mostly use tracing paper but I've also used red Saral, which was great on resingrave - it didn't rub off for ages. However when I tried Saral on some softcut lino stuff it created a very wide smudgy line..

[Former_Member]

I've been using tracing paper when I haven't drawn on the block directly, and then going over the pencil lines with a fine permanent marker. It's lasted fairly well and I've been working on quite a small scale.