For learning purposes 4 color woodblock

1. 4 COLOR WOODCUT PROCESS

2. First you need to find an image: You have various options when
finding an image. You can sketch your image like the one below. If you are not
comfortable drawing your own look for an image (i.e. Online, book, magazine, etc.)

3. Make 4 copies of that image. The four images represent the 4
different blocks you will use to create your 4 color woodcut. As the
example shows each of the 4 colors is represented in separate blocks.

4. Transfer your images to each block using the graphite paper and a
pencil or pen. *Note: all of the images are transferred in the same
exact place on each block. This ensures your registration when printing.

5. The block with the most detail is called your
“key block”. You may have noticed that this is
very close to the original sketch.

6. Here is the test print of the key block.

7. Here are the 4 blocks including an additional 5th
block (optional) for the
background. *Note: notice that each block is assigned one color.

8. Once each of your blocks are cut
your ready to print.

9. The Printing Process
First, cut your paper to a size that
leaves a one inch border. Most people
start the printing process with the
lightest color or the background color
first when printing.

10. Ink the first block fairly heavily with ink and
place it in the register frame. Slide the block
against the long edge of the frame until it
touches the other, perpendicular edge. This
position must be duplicated every time the
block is printed to ensure consistency from print
to print. When the block is in position, tape a
piece of tracing paper to the edge of the frame.
Note: Set up printing area and use clean hands
to place paper over block then rub firmly with
baren. Remove paper and re-ink
brayer….repeat until you have 5 nice prints.

11. Background two-tone color (optional step)

12. 1st
color printed

13. 2nd
color printed

14. 3rd
color printed

15. 4th
color printed (aka; key block)

16. I am sure there are questions and I will
walk you through all of this.