Tugboat Printshop Marks 20 Years of Making Meticulously Crafted Woodblock Prints

Woodblock printmaking often uses multiple carved pieces rather than a single block. Up to five distinctly carved blocks can be combined, with each block carrying different details that assemble into one total image. The process involves rolling the hand-carved blocks with colorful ink and layering them in precise order. Black outlines for flora and fauna are laid down first as colorful shapes, then additional details are added through subsequent layers. Prints are typically produced in limited editions of around 100. Tugboat Printshop is marking a 20th anniversary with a limited-time discount on original woodcut prints, and updates are shared through social media channels.

"When Valerie Lueth of Tugboat Printshop sets out to make a woodblock print, it's rare that she only uses a single block. Instead, sometimes up to five distinctly carved pieces are incorporated, each containing different details that, when combined, create a total image."

"To make the prints, which are usually limited to editions of 100 or so, Lueth rolls the meticulously hand-carved blocks with colorful ink, layering them precisely in order. Black outlines define flora and fauna, for instance, which are first laid down as colorful shapes."

"Tugboat Printshop is celebrating its 20th anniversary this year, and for a limited time, there's a discount on original woodcut prints in the shop. Keep an eye out on the studio's Instagram for updates about future editions, and Lueth is always sharing loads of making-of images on Flickr."

Read at Colossal