Top Lino Printing Kits for Carvers and Printmakers
The Essdee Lino Printing Kit is the top pick for most beginners because it bundles a handle, cutters, ink, and a brayer at a reasonable price. Its main advantage is the easy-to-hold wooden handle that accepts six different cutting blades. The main limitation is that the ink pad is small, which restricts print size to about A5.
Lino printing is a relief printmaking technique where you carve a design into a linoleum block, ink it, and press paper onto it. A good kit saves you from buying tools separately and ensures you have the essentials to start immediately.
The best kit for you depends on whether you are a beginner, a student, or a professional. Some kits include only the carving tools, while others come with ink, a roller, and even blocks. We looked at what each kit offers and how it performs based on user feedback.
The shortlist, ranked
Essdee Lino Printing Kit
This kit includes a wooden handle, six assorted cutting blades, a tube of water-soluble printing ink, a small roller, and an A5 lino piece. It is a comprehensive starter set that has been praised for its ease of use and value.
Pros
- Everything needed for a first project
- Water-soluble ink cleans up easily
- Wooden handle provides good grip
Cons
- Small roller limits print size
- Blades may dull quickly with heavy use
Daler-Rowney System 3 Lino Cutting Set
This set focuses on carving tools with five interchangeable blades and a comfort grip handle. It is ideal for those who already have ink and paper but need reliable cutters.
Pros
- Comfortable handle reduces hand fatigue
- Blades are sharp and precise
- Includes a sturdy storage case
Cons
- No ink or lino included
- Higher price than full kits
Speedball Deluxe Block Printing Kit
Speedball’s deluxe kit includes a 4 inch soft rubber roller, water-soluble printing ink, a carving set with handle and cutters, and two soft printing blocks. The larger roller allows for bigger prints than typical starter kits.
Pros
- Wide roller for A4 prints
- Soft blocks are easier to carve
- Trusted brand in printmaking
Cons
- Ink tube is small
- Some users find the handle less ergonomic
Prym Consumer Lino Printing Kit
A budget-friendly kit that includes a cutting tool with 6 blades, a plastic roller, and a small pot of ink. It is a decent choice for simple projects and educational settings.
Pros
- Very affordable
- All-in-one for a quick start
- Safe for older children with supervision
Cons
- Plastic tools feel less durable
- Ink quality is basic
Mabef Lino Printing Starter Kit
Mabef is known for quality artist materials. This starter kit features a professional-grade wooden handle, five high-carbon steel blades, and a set of two lino blocks. It does not include ink, so you can choose your own.
Pros
- Excellent craftsmanship
- Blades stay sharp longer
- Elegant wooden box
Cons
- No ink or roller
- Expensive for a beginner
Artway Lino Printing Kit
Artway provides a comprehensive kit with a cutting tool, 6 blades, a 10cm roller, water-soluble ink, and several lino pieces. It is well-reviewed for its variety and quality.
Pros
- Generous number of lino pieces
- Metal tool feels sturdy
- Roller size is good for small to medium prints
Cons
- Ink may dry quickly
- No instructions included
Mont Marte Lino Printing Kit
Mont Marte offers a low-cost kit that includes a carving handle, 5 replacement blades, a small brayer, and water-based ink. It is a practical option for those who want to try lino printing without a big investment.
Pros
- Very low price
- Good for one-off projects
- Easy cleanup with water
Cons
- Tools are not professional grade
- Ink coverage can be uneven
Side by side
| # | Model | Handle | Best for | Score | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Essdee Lino Printing Kit | Wooden, fits #1 to #6 blades | Beginners and hobbyists | 9.4 | Check price |
| 2 | Daler-Rowney System 3 Lino Cutting Set | Ergonomic with quick release | Art students and serious beginners | 9.1 | Check price |
| 3 | Speedball Deluxe Block Printing Kit | 4 inch soft rubber | Intermediate printmakers | 8.9 | Check price |
| 4 | Prym Consumer Lino Printing Kit | Plastic handle with 6 blades | Crafters and children | 8.5 | Check price |
| 5 | Mabef Lino Printing Starter Kit | Hardwood, ergonomic | Professionals seeking quality tools | 8.8 | Check price |
| 6 | Artway Lino Printing Kit | Metal with wooden handle | All-in-one convenience | 9.0 | Check price |
| 7 | Mont Marte Lino Printing Kit | Plastic with metal collet | Value seekers | 8.3 | Check price |
What matters most
Frequently asked questions
What is lino printing?
Lino printing is a relief printmaking technique where you carve a design into a linoleum block, apply ink to the raised surface, and press paper onto it to transfer the image.
What tools are included in a typical lino printing kit?
Most kits include a cutting handle, several blades with different profiles, a roller (brayer), water-soluble ink, and sometimes lino blocks. Some kits also include a tray and instructions.
Is lino printing suitable for beginners?
Yes, lino printing is accessible to beginners. Starter kits with soft blocks and water-soluble ink make the process easy and safe. Many kits are designed with educational use in mind.
Can I use regular paint instead of lino ink?
You can use block printing ink or thick acrylic paint. Regular paint may not provide even coverage or may dry too quickly. Lino ink is specially formulated for relief printing.
How do I clean lino tools after printing?
If you used water-soluble ink, clean tools with soap and water. For oil-based inks, use a solvent like mineral spirits. Dry tools thoroughly to prevent rust.
What type of paper is best for lino printing?
Smooth, absorbent papers like Japanese washi or printmaking paper work best. You can also use cartridge paper or even thin cardstock for practice.
How long does it take to carve a lino block?
It depends on the complexity. A simple design may take 30 minutes, while a detailed piece can take several hours. Beginners should start with small blocks and simple shapes.
Are lino blocks reusable?
Once carved, the block can be reused many times for printing. You can also wash off the ink and store it for future use. However, you cannot easily change the design once carved.
Our pick
If you are starting out, the Essdee Lino Printing Kit gives you the best balance of quality and value. For those who plan to make larger prints, the Speedball Deluxe Kit is worth the extra cost. If you already have ink and blocks, invest in the Daler-Rowney System 3 for its superior cutting tools.
