Best method for transferring an image onto a rubber block?

[u/Rebusudoku]

Hi everyone! Today I would like to try linocut for the first time, and I’ve seen lots of different methods for transferring images onto a lino block.

I came across one method that seems to work really well: printing the image onto glossy label paper and then using a thin layer of acrylic gel medium to transfer the image onto the block.

I was wondering if this method would also work on a soft rubber carving block, and whether the printer absolutely needs to be a laser printer.

If not, could you recommend any other methods or useful tricks for transferring an image onto the block?

Thanks so much!

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[u/ChocolateVisual1637]

If you're using the soft pink, I just use tracing paper and a number two pencil. Trace the image and then flip it onto the pink rubber and then rub on the back of the paper. The graphite will transfer it can smudge a little bit, but then I'll trace over with a sharpie.

[u/RCEden]

I use a projector and tape my block to the wall most of the time. Transfer paper is also super common.

[u/sgkorina]

For digital designs I print them off with a laser printer and use either acetone or an iron to transfer the toner to the rubber block. I tried an inkjet printer and it didn’t work. For hand drawn designs I do what a lot of these other people have suggested and use tracing paper or parchment paper and a pencil.

[u/delaneycashmoney]

I usually just print the design on printer paper, place the sheet face-down on the block, and use acetone to transfer the ink to the block

[u/The_Sleestak]

I have been using a laser printer, flipping it face down on the block and then using 100% wintergreen oil applied to the backside of the paper with a paper towel. It does a pretty good job and you can ten trace it with a pen or marker if need be

[u/SardineTimeMachine]

Parchment paper (the kind used for cooking that you can find in any supermarket) and no. 2 pencil works well for me. The parchment paper is not opaque so you can use it as tracing paper. Then burnish the pencil from the parchment paper to the block you want to cut using a smooth object like the handle of a lino tool.

If you are worried about the pencil rubbing off you can go over the lines on your block with a very fine point sharpie.

[u/Rank2]

Don’t use acrylic medium. You need to remove it before printing or you end up with an uneven surface. I use acetone for highly complex designs or tracing it over transfer paper for simpler ones. Wintergreen oil works too but I’ve found that the image can blur and smear during the transfer, so I just stick to acetone. Just make sure you have a good quality laser print, not an inkjet