Babble + Yak

Yak:Emma I think that its fairly safe to say that most makers (including crafters and artists-I am just using the one word for convenience) have a peak selling time, and that for most makers, their peak time is the run up to Christmas.  I applied for my Edinburgh Christmas show in May, my November show shortly afterwards.  Me and Jess have been talking, thinking, and planning Christmas really, since the summer.   For the best part of last week I have been home home.  I walked by the sea, always a head clearer, worked on some new screen prints and if I am honest watched a few (too many according to my Dad and Jess) Christmas films.  Now I am not talking your 'classic' Christmas films like Elf, the Grinch or a Wonderful life but Christmas at Pemberley Manor, A Very Country Christmas and my most recent watch; Switched at Christmas.  You may laugh, roll your eyes or judge, or think what has this got to do with being a maker but bear with me I will explain! Seaburn

Yak: Emma  Lino cutting for me is incredibly therapeutic.  The repetitive  motion of gliding the blade across the surface of the lino to reveal an image is for me the best part of the process.  'Oh I remember doing that at school' 'did you enjoy it?' 'no I cut my finger and never did it again' This is sadly, an all too common conversation I have with visitors to exhibitions and shows that I take part in.   Lino cutting doesn't have to be this way! Its a very simple process and can be experimental and surprising in outcomes.  Below are my top tips for lino printing, I hope that you have a go, and any questions or tips you might have then bob them in the comments section.   If you would like to see a video of me working then click here !  Top tips for lino printing 1-Paint a thin layer of acrylic paint over the top of the lino before you transfer the image.  I use battleship grey lino and the contrast between the cut an