Pfeil – L 8/7 – U – Lino Cutting Tools

Choose the cut your design needs

This Pfeil L 8/7 U gouge has a 7 mm blade, chrome vanadium steel construction and a hardwood handle. Use the curved cutting profile to create channels in lino. The stated blade width helps you compare sizes; the mark also depends on cutting depth and angle.

Start with shallow, controlled cuts

Mark the areas that should remain raised before carving: these carry ink into the final print. Remember that the printed image reverses your block, including lettering. Secure the lino on a stable surface, keep your free hand behind the cutting edge and cut away from your body. Try the blade on spare lino before approaching an important outline.

Digging in, slipping or tearing?

If the blade dives too deeply, lower the cutting angle and take a shallower pass. If it skates across the surface, reassess the angle and check the edge instead of increasing force. A ragged cut can indicate an edge needing attention or an overly ambitious cut. Stop and inspect the tool; test a smaller cut before continuing. Turn the block for curves rather than twisting the blade sideways in the cut.

Check the print before removing more lino

Brush away loose chips and make a proof to see which marks actually print. A shallow cleared area may still pick up ink, but first check that you are not overloading the roller. Remove more lino only where the proof shows it is needed. Protect cutting edges during storage and follow sharpening guidance suited to the profile.

Keep a sample of useful cuts to guide your next design. Do not prise out material with the cutting edge. Clear chips so the next cut remains visible. Keep the block steady throughout each cut. Protect nearby raised details. Test the edge first. Work carefully.