How To Use A Linotype Carving To Transfer Images On Ceramic Mugs

If you are looking for a unique gift idea then a handmade ceramic pottery item will prove a fitting choice irrespective of whether the recipient is an environmentalist or a regular geek. The mugs have designs that are decidedly unique and the artwork in relief can be very evocative. Linocuts in particular are effective image transfer methods and you can learn to use them in transferring any type of image, text or pattern on to your work.

Linocuts are effective in transferring images and artwork to clay with their smooth upper surface and a backing made from hessian fabric that helps to reduce cracking. Before carving the face of the lino, remove imperfections on the surface such as oil stains and scratches by means of fine grit sandpaper. Cleaning is also important as it ensures the surface is more receptive to inking.

If you are using an old and stiff linocut, make the surface softer for carving by heating it. Using a blow drier about half a foot from the surface or lightly ironing the lino will be effective in this regard. Just ensure you move the heat source over the surface of the lino in circular fashion and do not hold it in one place for too long.

Carve out the image on the lino once it is soft and receptive for your carving instrument. Remember the block printing principle of carving the image backward as the image reproduced on your ceramic article will be in reverse. The most effective way of achieving a reverse image is using a tracing paper to copy the original image and then transferring it in reverse on to the lino. Be careful with lino gouges as they can be sharp and may cause nasty cuts if used inappropriately.

For safety when carving on a linocut, use a C clamp on a flat tabletop. With the image transferred on the lino and carved out, remove the areas on the image that you do not need to cover with color. Use a brayer (a small hand roller) to transfer color to the linocut before you transfer the image to your ceramic item.

Handmade ceramic mugs are unique gift ideas that will stand out if made out properly. The design and utility value of the object is important but the image they bear should likewise be given primacy. The procedure described here is effective in preparing the image on a linocut piece and transferring to the clay object.