Description
Essdee Softcut Lino – Easy Carve Lino Block Sheets
Product Overview
Essdee Softcut Lino is a flexible, easy-to-carve alternative to traditional grey linoleum, specifically developed for effortless and precise carving. These Softcut Lino sheets are a favourite among printmakers who value fine detail, clean cuts, and a forgiving surface that holds intricate lines beautifully. Whether you’re just starting out in block printing or you’re a seasoned relief artist, Essdee’s Softcut Lino provides a smoother, safer, and more accessible carving experience.
Crafted from a specially formulated material, the creamy white surface allows direct drawing with a soft pencil, making the transition from sketch to carved block seamless. It’s particularly suitable for those creating detailed designs, delicate line work, or experimenting with block printing for the first time.
Sizes and Packs Available
We stock a wide range of sizes to suit all creative needs. If you’re searching for Softcut Lino A4 or Softcut Lino A3, the following options are closest:
- Softcut Lino A4: 300 x 210mm (Pack of 2, Pack of 10)
- Softcut Lino A3: 420 x 300mm (Pack of 2, Pack of 5, Pack of 10)
Other available sizes include:
- 100 x 105mm (Pack of 2)
- 150 x 100mm (Pack of 2)
- 200 x 150mm (Pack of 2)
- 75 x 75mm (Pack of 10)
- 100 x 75mm (Pack of 10)
- 100 x 100mm (Pack of 10)
- 150 x 105mm (Pack of 10)
- 210 x 150mm (Pack of 10)
Whether you’re working on mini prints or larger art pieces, there’s a Softcut Lino sheet size to match.
Key Features of Essdee Softcut Lino
- Easy to Carve: Designed for smooth cutting with less resistance than traditional lino, ideal for both beginners and professionals.
- Clean Linework: Holds fine lines superbly, allowing for sharp, detailed results with every print.
- Direct Drawing Surface: The light-coloured surface lets you sketch your design directly with pencil before carving – no need for transfer techniques.
- Consistent Print Quality: Produces a clean and even surface for reliable, repeatable printing.
- Flexible Yet Firm: Soft enough to reduce hand strain, yet stable enough to handle fine detail work.
- Press-Friendly: Can be used with a printing press (with care), as well as by hand with a baren or spoon.
Who is Softcut Lino for?
- Beginners & Students: The forgiving surface makes it ideal for those learning the basics of linocut.
- Professional Artists: Trusted by experienced printmakers for its versatility and ease of use.
- Art Teachers & Educators: Safe and easy to handle in classroom settings.
- Young Creatives: Suitable for supervised use by children and teens exploring printmaking.
Common Applications
- Fine art prints
- Handmade cards
- Poster art
- Textile block printing
- School projects
- Creative workshops
About Essdee
Essdee is a trusted British brand renowned for its innovation in printmaking tools and materials. From lino cutting tools to premium blocks like Softcut Lino, Essdee continues to support printmakers at every stage of their creative journey. Their Softcut Lino range is particularly praised for making printmaking accessible to all, with quality that delivers at both student and professional levels.
FAQs
Q: What tools should I use to carve Softcut Lino?
A: Standard lino cutting tools work perfectly, including V and U gouges from brands like Essdee and Pfeil.
Q: Can I use Softcut Lino with a printing press?
A: Yes, it’s compatible with a printing press, though it’s recommended to use a registration system and apply moderate pressure.
Q: Is this suitable for Softcut Lino beginners?
A: Absolutely. It’s one of the best surfaces for beginners due to how smoothly it cuts and how easy it is to draw on directly.
Order Today
Discover why so many artists are switching to Essdee Softcut Lino. Whether you’re seeking a full Softcut Lino A4 or Softcut Lino A3 sheet, or smaller blocks for intricate work, we’ve got you covered. Choose from a range of pack sizes to suit your studio or classroom needs, and bring your next print to life with ease and precision.
Buy now to start your next printmaking project with a surface designed to make carving a joy.
Toni –
Fantastic products, great prices and a wonderful hands-on service – Luke stayed in touch regarding my delivery and offset any issues before they happened. Excellent company – highly recommend!
Pia Simpson –
Luke was extremely helpful when the item I ordered was out of stock and then delayed from supplier – he kept me informed and sent me a free alternative so that I could get on with my project – great customer service and great small business – will definitely order again.