Block Printing on Fabric
Part 2 of this tutorial! Making the pattern for the fabric that is used in the DIY luggage wrap!
I broke this project down into two sets of instructions. This tutorial is for creating the block printed fabric that will be used for the luggage rack. I will detail how to block print onto fabric on this instruction card, in case you want a pattern on the canvas first. You can also use this tutorial for block printing on other objects, unrelated to the luggage rack project - any fabric and even paper. Let me know if you have any questions!
Materials
- block printing carving block
- fabric block printing ink
- linoleum cutter carving tool
- soft rubber brayer
- acrylic sheet glass (or similar)
- permanent marker
Instructions
- The first step is coming up with a design. Use a permanent marker to draw the design directly onto the carving block.
- The shapes for this pattern are loosely inspired by a few shapes that I used to paint a lot when I was actually painting (which was forever ago - gasp), along with the pattern on an old Dusen Dusen dress a friend gave me (that I LOVE).
- Then, using your carving tools, cut out the excess area away from the design (leaving the design raised), as shown in the photo. Use one of the pieces that has a U shape to it - you'll see a few sizes come with your carving tool.
- The wider the U shape on the sharp side, the deeper and wider the grooves / cut outs will be. You can also use one of the carving tools (the one that looks like a blade), to cut away excess material from the side of each block to make it easier to handle while stamping.
- Side note: If you've never carved a stamp before, not to worry, it's super easy! BUT be sure to use caution with the carving tools. They've very sharp!
- Once the stamps are carved, ink up an acrylic sheet, piece of glass, or another smooth surface that's similar. Squeeze out ink (I especially like this ink for fabric - and there are loads of color options) in a long line toward the top of the palette.
- Then use the soft rubber brayer (the roller), to bring the ink down - rolling ink out a bit on the surface before rolling it over your stamp.
- Flip the stamp over and press it down firmly and evenly onto the canvas (or whatever fabric you're working with). Then, pull the stamp away from the fabric, straight up if you can.
- Repeat steps 4 and 5 until your fabric is covered. Let the surface air dry for 24 hours before using (this will set the ink).