How to Block Print With Acrylic Paint

Carve designs into soap bars for simple block printing.

Introduce children to the art of print-making by making simple block prints using bars of soap, art linoleum or Styrofoam food containers. Block printing requires the use of a sharp tool so it is best to work with an adult at all times. Carve shapes and designs from your selected medium, roll the carved object with paint and press on to paper. Block printing is really as simple as that; however, carving designs may take some practice. This is an art medium that may easily evolve as child (or adult) skill level progresses from simple designs to intricate prints.

Things You'll Need

• Glycerin soap bars
• X-acto knife or etching tool
• Toothpick
• Non-toxic acrylic paint
• Cookie tray
• Small paint brushes or paint rollers
• Paper
• Washcloth or other scrap cleaning rag
• Linoleum blocks (optional)
• Styrofoam food containers (optional)

Instructions

1. Using an X-acto knife or etching tool, carve a simple design into a block of glycerin soap. Be sure to use extreme care when working with sharp-edged tools. Cut the lines at least ¼-inch deep into the soap bar. Clean away the flakes of cut soap to make clean lines.

2. Fill a cookie tray with the color of acrylic paint that you will use to make your print. Use a small paint brush or paint roller to cover the design on the soap with paint.

3. Press the paint covered soap block onto the paper. Press down for several seconds before peeling away the paper to reveal your painted design. Allow print to dry.

4. Use a toothpick to clean out the lines of your carved design. Wipe away excess paint with a washcloth. Apply paint and repeat the printing process to make additional prints.

5. Try carving designs into different mediums like linoleum blocks or Styrofoam food containers. Repeat the paint application and printing process. Compare your prints to determine which medium makes the best designs.

Tips & Warnings

• Purchase linoleum blocks from an art supply store. Many stores sell softer grade linoleum made especially for block printing.

• Do not recycle Styrofoam food containers that held meat products because they may contain juices carrying bacteria.

References

• Soap Block Prints
• Linoleum Block Prints
• Block Prints with Recycled Food Packaging