Over the Thanksgiving break, I worked on cutting out a lino block for printing wrapping paper and cards.  The project turned out even better than I expected and, as I shared peeks of the process on Instagram, many people asked if I would share a tutorial.  So, this post is it!  Here is a lino printed wrapping paper project for beginners.  We’ll walk through the materials you’ll need, the process of carving a “lino” (linoleum) block, and printing.

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The pattern that I carved over Thanksgiving took me several hours, so we’ll use a simpler pattern for this lino printed wrapping paper project.

Before we get to the details, I will share the process of how I made this one for those who are interested.  The process is very similar, but I used some different materials.  Instead of using an easy-cut “lino” block made of a rubbery material, I used .  I definitely liked it better for the smaller detail cuts and I didn’t find it harder to move the cutting tools through.  Since this pattern was more detialed, I drew it out with pencil first and then ink.  I used to transfer it over to the lino block and then made those lines darker with a white .  This is a pencil made to mark on glass and other sliock surfaces, so it’s perfect for marking on lino.

I carved the linoleum block using the same tools I share below.  There was just a lot of detail, so it took a while.  I’d work on carving while the bread was rising or when things were in the oven.  It was a nice little project to pop in and work on when I had the time.

I say this in the video tutorial as well, but I think the process of cutting linoleum to be very pretty.  I love seeing the pattern emerge, especially as light falls across it.  I also love how the cuts make their own pattern around the design.

I tried some test prints with the border and decided to cut it off and just print the tree.  I have the border if I want to use it for other things, but it was making the pattern a litte too “square” when putting it in a repeat.

I tried a few different paints and colors and decided to just keep to a simple white design on .

I am just in love with this lino printed wrapping paper!  For those who love the design, too, I have made a digital version and it’s available on .  I’ll share more at the bottom of the post about it.

Onto the lino printed wrapping paper project tutorial for beginners.  As I said, we’re going to work with a simpler design to get you warmed up.  The design I carved above was a challenge for me and I know it would be too tedious for a first project.  So, we’ll start with a Dala horse that has simple lines and just a few details…

lino printed wrapping paper project | template

Here is the dala horse pattern I drew from my stamp.  Feel free to print this up and use it for personal projects.  I thought this would be a cute pattern for cards, tags, wrapping paper, or ornaments.  If you print it as is, it will print up a bit smaller than I drew and carved it on my block, so you can enlarge it if you want it bigger or shrink it if you want it smaller in the settings box on the print job.

To transfer the design to the stamp either use or the old pencil tracing trick.  (Hold the drawing up to a window and trace it in a dark, soft pencil on the reverse side.  Position it on the lino black and rub over the drawing with the side of a pencil or a bone folder to transfer the traced design.

I do share how I drew the design directly on the lino block in the video, so you can get an idea of how to gather inspiration to create your own pattern.

Spot the kitty toes.

lino printed wrapping paper project | supplies

(for applying ink or you can use a brush)

(for rolling over the block, but you can use a rolling pin, your hands, or a book)

(you can use acrylic paint for faster drying)

glass palette (you can use just a paper plate or piece of cardboard) 

solid wrapping paper

lino printed wrapping paper project | video tutorial

This is another project that’s just easier to watch than read.  You can see how I create the design, handle the tools, do the carving, apply the ink, etc.  The video should answer most questions on the how of the lino cutting and printing process.

I note it in the video, but always make sure you keep your hands behind the carving tools and you carve away from your body.  The tools can slip and are sharp!  Turn the design as you’re working on it to make sure you’re carving in a safe direction and always be aware of your hands.  On another note, I realize the burn on my left hand looks like it could’ve been the result of a lino cutting accident, but I actually burned it on the heating element of a toaster oven!  That’s why I was wearing a bandaid in several of my videos last week, but it’s healing nicely.

Anyway, here is the video tutorial…

The Caligo Safewash ink works really well at making a sharp print, but it is oil-based so it takes a few days to dry.  I’ll admit, this is an impractical thing when you’re trying to make a bunch of wrapping paper!  If the dry time is a concern or a deal-breaker for you, just use acrylic paint.  The details of the print might not be as sharp, but it’ll be dry in just a few minutes instead of days.

If you’re interested in learning more about lino cutting, THIS is an excellent book.

Since I can’t produce this in high quantities myself, I made the pattern available on in a couple of different colorways.  (And even in some other products like pillows.)  And I included a complementary pattern as well in a fabric design I made a few years ago.  I have ordered the papers, so I won’t be able to confirm their quality with you until I get them, but I have been pleased with all of the things I’ve purchased from Society6 so far.

Clockwise from top left – Partridge in a Pear Tree Green, German Drapery Stripe Green, Patridge in a Pear Tree Blue, German Drapery Stripe Blue.

Next year, I’d like to work more on pattern design.  I really love that process and I keep dragging my feet on it, but I’m excited about getting some papers and fabrics made and available.

You can find more Christmas decorating, crafts, recipes, and projects HERE.