Step by Step Guide to Lino Printing an Anatomical Heart

How-To Guides

Lino printing is a traditional printmaking technique that’s both accessible and rewarding. It involves carving a design into a soft block of linoleum, applying ink to the raised surface and pressing it onto paper to create bold, textured prints. The process allows for a lot of creative freedom, from simple shapes to intricate patterns and each print has its own unique charm.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through creating a heart-themed lino print card, perfect for special occasions, gifts or just practicing your printmaking skills. Even if you’ve never tried lino printing before, this project is approachable and fun, giving you a tangible, handmade result you can be proud of.

Step by step - Let's Create

Sketch the anatomical heart design:
Start by drawing your anatomical heart on paper. Keep in mind that shadows and highlights will be represented through cuts - in this case darker areas will be cut, while lighter areas will remain.

Transfer the Design onto Lino:
Place a sheet of carbon paper face down onto your lino block. Position your drawing on top. Use a ballpoint pen or pencil to trace over the design, pressing firmly to transfer all the details onto the lino. Remove the paper and go over any faint lines with a marker.

Start Carving the Outline:
Begin with a small V-shaped gouge to carve the outlines first. Follow the main contours of the heart carefully, carving away thin lines to define the structure. Work slowly and steadily, cutting away from yourself for safety. Using a flat brush, start by brushing out dash marks on your background, varying in length using one colour. You can leave gaps of white around the edges of your design.

Add Detail & Shading:
Use different gouge sizes to create texture:
Fine lines for veins and arteries.
Broader cuts for highlights.
Cross-hatching or stippling techniques for shading.
Be mindful of how negative space and untouched areas will define depth in the final print.

Ink and Test Print:
Roll out block printing ink onto a flat surface using a brayer (roller). Evenly coat the lino block with a thin layer of ink. Press a test print onto scrap paper using a baren (or the back of a spoon) to check for any necessary refinements.

Final Adjustments & Print:
If needed, carve away additional areas for contrast and refinement. Once happy, ink the block and press onto high quality print paper for the final piece. Allow the print to dry thoroughly before handling.

Final Touches:
Choose a card base in a complementary colour (black, red, or deep blue work well).
Use double-sided tape or PVA glue to stick the cut-out heart onto the card.
Add embellishments for extra flair:
Gel pens or Posca markers to highlight veins, details, or add a pop of colour.
Gold or metallic ink to create a glowing effect.
Splatter paint or ink washes for an expressive touch.
Collage elements like torn paper or textured backgrounds for a mixed-media effect.
Allow everything to dry before writing inside and gifting your unique handmade card!

Tips for Success:

• Mirror Your Design – Remember that the print will be a reversed version of your lino block.

• Use Sharp Tools – Blunt blades can tear the lino instead of carving smoothly.

• Go Slow – Rushing can lead to accidental cuts or uneven lines.

• Experiment with Textures – Varying gouge types can add depth and realism.

• Test Before Final Print – Always do test prints to refine your carving.

• Clean Your Block & Tools – Dried ink can clog the details, so clean immediately after use.