During the current festive season I decided to put my print making skills to the test once again!

I decided to create my own festive robin design for my friends, family and co-workers.  I hand sketched various options as well as looking for on-line inspiration.  Using a simple black and white contrast I was able to produce an interesting and unique design. I started the design process by drawing the robin onto tracing paper.  Once drawn it was turned over as if it was backwards, allowing the printed design to come out in the correct orientation.  I then traced the image onto the piece of lino.   The lino was then ready to be cut.  During this process I used various sized cutting tools to create the different patterns and detailing, I was then able to begin making the cards.

After the plate was cut I then began creating the cards. Having chosen thick print making paper to create the card, I used paper folding tools to make a crease down the middle of the paper to ensure a neat fold making the card shape.

Once all the cards were made the inking process began.  I decided to use black ink only as I feel the contrast between black and white replicates how light and dark create shadows especially in the Winter season.  I also wanted the design to fit in with décor in people homes and hopefully be displayed throughout the year.

I loved making these cards and have had wonderful feedback!

Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!

Items Used:

• A3 Cutting Mat

• Mechanical Pencil

• Thick paper preferably a minimum of 150 gsm

• Paper folding tools

• Black block printing ink

• A5 piece of lino

• Fine line pens/ Biro for writing inside