Common Linocut Beginner Mistake: Forgetting to Mirror Your Drawing
A common linocut mistake: not mirroring your drawing! Learn why it matters and how to plan designs and lettering the right way.
I will help you understand linocut printing step by step, try it out for yourself, and create your own prints.
One of the most common linocut beginner mistakes happens before you even start carving: you forget to mirror your drawing. That happens quickly — especially if you draw directly onto the linoleum block (and yes, I’ve done it too 😄).
This mistake becomes critical if your design includes text or lettering. Once printed, all letters appear backwards — and your print might be ruined before you notice.
How to avoid this mistake
Mistakes are great for learning — but some are better avoided right away.
In my online linocut course for beginners, I guide you step by step through how to plan and mirror your designs correctly.
You can work traditionally on paper or digitally on the iPad Pro — whichever helps you visualize your layout more clearly.
Drawing directly on the linoleum can work, but if you want to print multiple color layers, planning your design first is essential.
Planning is everything
What works best for me is starting with a small sketch in my sketchbook. It helps define the composition and gives a clear idea of how the final print will look. I often find inspiration on Pinterest — but I’ve learned that spontaneous doodling rarely results in a harmonious, well-balanced print.
If you’d like some guidance to jump-start your linocut journey, my course walks you through the entire process — from the first sketch to your finished print.
