Talented Mr B Registration Device – Multi-Block Colour Printmaking Registration Jig

Talented Mr B Registration Device for Multi-Block Colour Linocut Printing

The Talented Mr B Registration Device is a practical registration jig for linocut, woodcut and relief printmaking, designed to help keep your blocks accurately aligned when reduction lino printing or multi-block lino printing. Originally designed by The Talented Mr B and Laura Boswell, this registration device is now manufactured by Hickman Design on their behalf. It is especially useful for printmakers working with separate blocks for each colour, helping each block return to the same position throughout the printing process.

A4, A5 and A6 Registration Jig Sizes

The main version of the Talented Mr B Registration Device measures 300 x 450mm and is designed for printing up to A4 lino blocks. This is based on the original larger format and is suitable for printmakers working with A4 lino, as well as smaller blocks. We also manufacture smaller A5 and A6 versions, ideal for smaller prints, test blocks, workshops, classes or printmakers who do not need the full A4 size.

Designed for Hand and Press Printing

The registration device is suitable for both hand printing and use with a printing press. For the main A4 size, your press should have a bed of at least 310 × 450mm and be able to accommodate a total thickness of approximately 12mm. When using an intaglio roller-bed press, the roller height, pressure or packing may need adjusting. Additional press-printing instructions are supplied with your order.

Made from MDF with Supplied Insert

The registration frame jig is made from x3 layers of 3mm MDF in total, giving a total heigh of 9mm. Each device is supplied with a single 3mm MDF insert unmounted. When set up, the lino sits just above the top 3mm frame, helping position the block securely for accurate registration. Additional inserts are available separately for each size and can be supplied either mounted or unmounted, depending on how you prefer to prepare and use your blocks.

As the lino can vary in size by approximately 0.5–1mm during manufacturing, there may be a slight difference in alignment with the top frame. The frame has been designed with a 2mm clearance on each side. For the best registration, position the insert first, lower the top frame, then centre the lino within the opening before fixing it in place.

What Are the Mounted Inserts?

Mounted inserts are made using standard Essdee 3.2mm grey, hessian-backed lino, securely fixed to a 3mm MDF base. Please select the mounted lino from the drop down to show an example image.

When extra inserts are purchased with a registration board, we will check and adjust them to ensure a good fit before dispatch. Inserts purchased separately at a later date may require light sanding to account for minor variations between individually handmade boards.

Important Note – Additional Inserts

Any additional inserts ordered with a registration board are individually checked and fitted to that specific board to ensure the best fit.

A black dot is marked on the top-right corner of each insert to show the correct orientation. When placing the insert into the board:

• Position the black dot face down.
• Place the marked corner at the top right of the board when it is facing you.
• This corner should align with the removal gap at the top of the board.

This ensures the insert is placed in the same tested position in which it was fitted.

Design & Size Differences – Original Boards vs New Boards

Please note that older boards are slightly larger than our new design. Older boards measure 310 × 450 mm, while ours measure 300 × 450 mm.

The internal frame on our boards also fits more tightly around the lino. Insert sizes may differ too: older inserts measure 210 × 300 mm, while ours measure 210 × 297 mm.

We can supply inserts for older boards at the same price as our standard inserts.

Ideal for Colour Registration in Printmaking

This registration jig is ideal for linocut, woodcut and relief printmakers who need a reliable way to work with reduction lino printing or register multiple blocks for colour printing. It is particularly useful for multi-block lino prints, reduction-style planning, repeat print runs and accurate alignment when working by hand or with a press.

Helpful guides

Registering prints for colour alignment · Planning multicolour lino prints