Hickman Design

About Hickman Design

Who We Are

Founded in 2017, Hickman Design began as a personal portfolio and blog documenting the creative process of Luke Hickman, an illustrator and fine-art printmaker from the United Kingdom. What started as a digital journal exploring traditional printmaking techniques has evolved into a respected UK art-supply brand specialising in printmaking equipment, lino-cutting tools, and studio essentials for artists of every level.

Today, Hickman Design serves as both an educational hub and a trusted art supplier, helping artists, students and professionals discover reliable materials, refined techniques and honest guidance drawn from first-hand experience.

Our Story

Luke Hickman’s journey into printmaking began during six years of formal study — first through a Fine Art course at college, and later at the Norwich University of the Arts, where he graduated with a BA (Hons) Fine Art in 2015. These formative years developed a deep understanding of traditional and contemporary printmaking methods, from lino printing and monoprinting to screen printing and woodblock printing.

After three years working within the commercial printing industry and over five years in digital marketing, Luke recognised the need for a platform that would combine artistic insight with practical resources. Hickman Design became that platform — offering detailed tutorials, accessible guidance, and hand-picked supplies for artists who value quality and craftsmanship.

What We Do

Hickman Design now operates as a UK-based art-supply company and creative resource, providing:

• Professional printmaking tools, inks, papers, and studio materials curated for quality and durability.
• A growing range of in-house innovations, including stainless-steel registration pins and complete lino printing kits.
• Educational content such as process guides, artist interviews, and printmaking glossaries to support lifelong learning.
• Insightful blogs on art, design, and creative culture that connect traditional craftsmanship with modern techniques.

We proudly support artists and printmakers across the UK with the same hands-on knowledge that shaped our founder’s artistic practice.

Artistic Focus & Influences

Luke’s own creative work is grounded in fine-art printmaking and illustration, often drawing upon themes of war, politics, and history. Having grown up in a military family in both the UK and Germany, his perspective reflects the tension between conflict and humanity, interpreted through print-based media. This background continues to influence the artistic tone and educational ethos of Hickman Design — encouraging others to explore subjects that hold personal or cultural meaning.

He credits Sonja Ruddick and Ernst Nichols for their mentorship at Norwich University of the Arts, whose teaching instilled the technical rigour and curiosity that still guide the studio today.

Our Mission

At Hickman Design, we believe that art supplies should empower creativity, not limit it. Our goal is to make professional-grade printmaking materials accessible while fostering a supportive learning environment. Whether you’re discovering lino cutting for the first time or refining advanced multi-colour printing methods, we’re here to provide both the tools and the understanding to help you achieve outstanding results.

As a UK-based independent business, we’re proud to combine small-studio care with large-scale expertise — serving artists who value authenticity, craftsmanship and practical advice.