Nature Imprinted

Would you like to learn linocut printing from an expert? Search Press has just the book for you! In Nature Imprinted, UK artist and author Jane Spink shepherds readers through the process of creating linocut blocks, and details how to use them to make lovely prints that reflect the beauty of the natural world. You’ll learn to carve birds, flowers, leaves and more while building your skill set with each project. As Jane declares in the book’s opening, I will never stop being amazed at the potential this process offers to create new ideas. From strong, simple and graphic, to the capacity for achieving the finest details, linocut printing is a wonderful technique for creating many, many different styles of artwork.She says you don’t need to spend a lot to get started and suggests purchasing a simple kit… that’s always welcome news when trying a new hobby. I found it interesting to read about the tools, inks and papers, and how to handle them. For example, pressing tools range from a simple wooden spoon to book presses, or printing and etching presses that can cost up to a hundred thousand dollars! Techniques are presented one by one and there is also a handy troubleshooting section. A template is included for each design. By the way, prints don’t have to be black and white…vivid colors can be used too. Enjoy a flipthrough video on the book’s Amazon page where there are already 26 verified reviews. Each one is 5 stars - it doesn’t get much better than that! Also, check out Jane Spink’s website, Inky Dog Studio, and her very popular Instagram feed… she is @inkydogstudio.

Spurred on by the global climate crisis, printmaker Jane Spink feels increasingly motivated to make art that will help raise awareness and re-connect people to the nature that we all share the planet with. And having worked as a freelance textile and graphic designer for nearly 20 years, followed by 16 years teaching art in schools, she’s well placed to bring this new linocut ‘how to’ guide into the world. Based on artwork created under the moniker Inky Dog Studio, ‘Nature Imprinted’ is a great resource for anyone looking to get into the craft of linocut.

A great deal of trouble has gone into the production of this utterly beautiful book, which is one of the most satisfying I have ever handled […]

This is a joy […] Quite simply, if this doesn’t make you want to take up printmaking, well, I despair.

Learn to carve birds, flowers and leaves to create prints inspired by the natural world. From ready-to-use templates for all the projects, you’ll make print blocks and learn to create your own. This book will help anyone setting out on a linocut journey.

This book is beautifully presented with lovely illustrations of Jane’s work.

One can clearly see Jane’s love for this art form. She reassures the reader that the technique she presents in this book is inexpensive, so anyone could start and enjoy this form of art.

I started reading this book back to front – beginning at the Trouble shooting section – hoping to save myself some most likely unavoidable mistakes. It is reassuring to see that even professionals make mistakes and that these can be rectified.

Then I had a look at the short introduction to what is linocut and its brief history; followed by very clear information on tools and equipment. The list of different cutting tools available and the exact sizes Jane used, is very helpful as potentially one only need three cutting tools to achieve all the projects in this book.

The idea of using other inks not just printing inks is also enlightening. As a seasoned crafter I already own some of the ink pads mentioned and could use what I already have to start with.

Jane also explains very simply different paper that could be used and effects one could achieve with them.

In the Techniques section, Jane encourages to try playing with the tools and engage in mark making to achieve different effects and develop own style. The Demo project takes the reader by the hand, showing step by step the basic process and techniques. This section is clearly illustrated and packed with tips. I particularly like the ‘Advantages and disadvantages’ sections, as these could save a beginner from some potential pitfalls.

In the Design and inspiration section, Jane encourages the reader to use personal inspiration like photos and sketchbooks.

There are 10 projects for us to have a go at, all well explained and each build on previously used skills. I can’t wait to have a go and start using my own ideas following Jane’s advice and guidance.

I have a couple other books on linocut but this one is just perfect for the beginner. It is not overloaded with information, giving enough guidance and info to have a successful go at this beautiful art form. It would make a perfect gift to anyone starting their journey in lino cutting or a reluctant printmaker wishing to take some inspiration from nature. A fantastic addition to anyone’s artistic library.

Jane Spink’s Nature Imprinted is a beautifully presented and inspiring guide that celebrates the rich textures and patterns of the natural world through the art of printmaking.

Perfect for linocut artists, mixed media artists, and creative explorers, this book shows how to use natural materials such as leaves, flowers, seed heads, and feathers to create stunning printed designs on fabric and paper.

Spink’s approach is both accessible and encouraging, with clear step-by-step instructions and thoughtful guidance on materials, tools, and techniques.

She covers everything from simple stamping to more advanced methods such as gel plate printing, monoprinting, and cyanotype.

Each process is carefully explained, making it easy for readers to experiment and build confidence in their own printmaking practice.

What makes Nature Imprinted stand out is its deep respect for the beauty of nature itself. Rather than forcing perfection, Spink embraces the organic shapes, textures, and irregularities of natural forms, turning them into striking prints that celebrate individuality and imperfection.

The book also encourages the use of recycled and found materials, appealing to those who enjoy sustainable, mindful making.

A wide range of project ideas is included, from wall art and cards to fabric panels and book covers, offering endless opportunities to incorporate these unique prints into other crafts such as stitching, collage, or textile art.

Lavishly illustrated with Spink’s own beautiful work, the book is as much a visual delight as it is a practical manual.

I was delighted to find templates included in the last section of this delightfully inspiring book.

In summary, Nature Imprinted is an inspiring and versatile resource for anyone eager to explore printmaking as a way to connect creativity with the natural world. A wonderful addition to any maker’s or artist’s collection.

Jane is a UK-based artist and printmaker. After gaining a degree in Textile Design from Central Saint Martins in the 1980s, Jane worked as a freelance textile and graphic designer for almost 20 years, followed by 16 years of teaching art in schools. Jane set up her own art/printmaking practice, Inky Dog Studio, in 2018. Within very little time, Jane’s stunning work has generated a passionate following worldwide. Jane lives and works in the historic market town of Rayleigh, Essex, UK.