Block Printing Tools

Block Printing Tools

Set up an inking tray, plate and block stop

Compare the usable surface with your roller and identify how the block will be supported.

Measure room to roll the ink

Choose a flat area large enough for the roller to travel, with room beside the ink. The plate's outer size can include turned edges, so compare the actual flat area with the roller you use.

Check how a bench hook sits on your worktop

Compare the lip shape with the edge and thickness of the table. Check how the opposite lip supports the block and follow the maker's setup instructions. An inking tray can provide a surface without providing the same kind of support.

Keep the ink and tool care compatible

Check which inks and cleaners the surface maker allows. Clean the tool following the ink directions. If you plan to carve and roll ink in the same session, separate clean carving space from the ink area.

Source documentation

Guide questions

Does a flat tray hold the block in place?

Look for a documented stop or bench-hook edge if you need that function. A flat tray primarily gives you a place to roll ink.

Where should I measure a bench hook on a table?

Check the near edge for room under the hook and measure whether the work surface supports the plate flat.

Why keep an ink tray separate from a carving stop?

A separate tray lets you leave a color ready while you correct the block on a clean, dry support.

Which accessory suits the job?

  1. Choose the two-purpose plate if you need a carving stop and can switch the station to inking. Choose a separate tray if you need both ready at once.

    Bench hook and inking plate, 9 × 7 inches ↗Lino inking tray, 240 × 200 mm ↗

  2. The small Speedball plate suits a tighter bench. Choose the larger metal stop if your block and roller need more room and your bench supports it.

    Bench hook and inking plate, 9 × 7 inches ↗Large metal lino stop and inking plate ↗

  3. Choose four compact plates for several stations. Choose one large plate when a single block needs more supported area.

    Metal bench hooks and inking plates, four-pack ↗XL powder-coated metal bench hook and inking plate ↗

Accessories in this guide

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