✨ Linocut: Discover the Creation Process of My Handmade Bookmarks

Take a look behind the scenes! Discover how I make my unique linocut bookmarks, from Nordic inspiration to engraving, inking, and hand printing.

Creating a handmade bookmark is not just about cutting out a piece of paper: it's about creating a small piece of art that is both practical and aesthetic. Each piece I offer is printed by hand using the linocut technique, an artisanal process that allows me to engrave my inspirations into the material.

In this article, I reveal the steps involved in making my linocut bookmarks , from the initial drawing to the final cut. A real journey behind the scenes of my creation!

1. Sketching and Drawing: The Inspiration for a Unique Bookmark

It all starts with an idea. I imagine a pattern inspired by my world (Nordic-inspired for the moment, but other styles may come later), which I first draw in pencil on paper. This sketch allows me to lay the foundations of the visual, refine the details, and already think about how it will be transposed into engraving . Every line counts, because it will guide the engraving tool later. It is this crucial step that defines the style of each handmade bookmark .

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2. Transferring the Pattern onto Linoleum: Preparation for Engraving

Once the design is validated, I manually transfer it onto a linoleum plate . It is on this flexible but dense surface that I will engrave my handmade bookmark pattern. The transfer is done using tracing paper, so that the line is clearly visible on the lino, thus ensuring the precision of the future linocut .

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3. Pattern Engraving: The Art of Linocut

Then comes the actual linocutting : using specific gouges, I meticulously carve the linoleum to bring out the shapes. Everything I carve will remain white when printed, while the parts left in relief will be inked . This is a step that requires great precision and a lot of patience, because the slightest error is definitive and can completely ruin the bookmark design. This is the heart of the linocutting process .

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4. Inking the Engraved Plate: Revealing the Details

When the engraving is finished, I move on to inking. I apply a layer of typographic ink (black for the moment, but I am thinking about color compositions) using a roller to evenly cover the raised areas. This step reveals the finesse of the engraved details and already gives a striking preview of the final result of your future unique bookmark .

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5. Paper Placement and Hand Pressure: Artisan Printing

I then carefully place a thick paper (about 300g) on ​​the inked plate. I press manually using a tool or simply my hands to transfer the ink onto the paper. This moment is always a little magical: each print is unique, with its small variations, true marks of craftsmanship. This is where the bookmark comes to life .

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6. Drying and Final Cutting: The Final Touch of Your Bookmark

After printing, the bookmarks are left to dry for a few minutes , until the ink sets. I then let them rest until the next day , for complete and optimal drying. The following day, I proceed with the final cutting : the edges are carefully adjusted by hand, and the format may vary slightly (but remains in an ideal dimension for daily use).

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Conclusion: The Authenticity of Each Hand-Engraved Bookmark

Each Scarlet Wolf bookmark follows this entirely artisanal process , combining creativity, precision and passion for linocutting . Whether you give it as a gift or keep it for yourself, it is an authentic object, made with care, which will accompany you for a long time in your reading and will remind you of the importance of handmade work.

👉 If you have any questions about making linocut bookmarks or would like a custom design, please feel free to contact me!

👉 Do you like my world? Find all my handcrafted bookmarks directly in the Shop

FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions About Linocut Bookmark Making

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What is linocut applied to bookmarks?

Linocutting is a handcrafted printing technique where a design is etched onto a linoleum plate. The raised areas are inked and then pressed onto paper to create unique, handmade bookmarks .

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How long does it take to create a linocut bookmark?

The process of creating a linocut bookmark includes drawing, transferring to lino, engraving, inking, and drying. Each step requires precision and patience, making each piece a time-consuming craft.

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Can linocut bookmark designs be personalized?

Yes, it is possible to create personalized linocut bookmarks . The process begins with a custom sketch and then engraving the desired design onto linoleum, resulting in a unique and meaningful piece.

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What materials are used for linocut bookmarks?

Making a linocut bookmark involves using linoleum plates, engraving gouges, quality typographic ink and thick paper (often 300g) for optimal and lasting printing.

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What is special about Scarlet Wolf bookmarks?

Scarlet Wolf bookmarks are entirely handmade using linocut technology , from initial inspiration to final cutting. Each piece is unique, reflecting expert craftsmanship and a passion for Nordic and esoteric themes.