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When you’re carving with sharp tools, it can be easy to make a mistake and cut yourself. Linocut safety is an important skill to learn. When I was first learning how to carve linocuts, I cut myself more times than I’d like and eventually found a few tricks and tools to prevent having to get the bandages out.
I’ve been fortunate enough that I’ve only needed band-aids, but you never know when you mistakenly cause a far worse injury, so make sure you stay safe when carving your block prints.
1. Always carve away from yourself. Never, ever carve towards yourself. If you want to adjust the direction you’re carving, turn the block so you can continue to carve away from your body.
2. Keep both hands behind the sharp end of your carving tool. It’s tempting to brace your lino block using your hand and carve towards it, but it will only be a matter of time before you slip and cut yourself.
3. Use a bench hook. This will allow you to brace your block and keep it stable as you carve. This is my favourite safety tool when carving because not only does it keep me safe but I find carving takes less effort too.
4. Try a non-slip mat. If you don’t have a bench hook or the block you’re carving isn’t square, you can use a non-slip mat to keep your block in place so it’s easier to keep the block in place without putting your hand in danger. Fortunately, a non-slip mat is really affordable. I picked mine up at the dollar store.
5. Carve short, small pieces. If you try and carve long pieces, you run the risk of losing control and slipping, which increases your risk of cutting yourself.
6. Keep your tools sharp. This one might seem contrary to common sense, but if you keep your tools sharp, you are less likely to struggle with your cuts, leading to a lower risk of slipping and hurting yourself.
7. Warm up your lino block. If you’re using traditional battleship grey lino, it can be pretty tough to carve if it’s cool, so warm it up. This allows your carving tool to better slide through the lino, reducing your chance of slipping.
8. Above all, take your time. If you rush or try to carve when you’re tired, you’re way more likely to hurt yourself. It’s better to finish up your project a few days later rather than dealing with an injury.
Buy your own
Some supplies mentioned in this post are available at many art stores or on Amazon
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