There’s something extra joyful about crafting in the summer—the days are longer, the colours feel brighter, and inspiration is blooming everywhere you look. If you’ve been wanting to try something new (or revisit a favourite printmaking technique), lino printing is a wonderfully satisfying craft that’s perfect for sunny days.

Here are five lovely ways to embrace lino printing this summer…

1. Printmaking in the Sunshine
Summer is ideal for lino printing. The natural daylight helps with carving intricate details and choosing colour combinations, and your prints dry much faster in warmer weather. If you have an outdoor table, even better! Take your tools outside and let the birdsong be your background music.

2. Botanical Inspiration All Around You
Cacti, succulents, ferns, wildflowers—plants offer endless inspiration for lino printing. Their bold shapes and striking silhouettes translate beautifully into carved designs. Try sketching plants from your garden, a walk, or even your windowsill and see how they could become your next print.

3. Summer Colour Play
Lino printing isn’t just about black ink! Try combining fresh, summery shades like wisteria purple, emerald green, and soft pink for a playful twist. You can print layered designs or even highlight certain areas with markers or paint pens for extra detail. Remember our beautiful summer-inspired citrus fruit stencilled apron posted in July 2022!

4. Crafting with a Purpose
One of the joys of lino printing is how versatile it is—you can use your designs on all sorts of practical items. Why not print on cotton tote bags, gift tags, or fabric napkins for summer picnics? A few hand-printed items also make thoughtful gifts for birthdays or summer weddings.

5. Lino Printing on the Go
Want to make the most of the good weather? You can take lino printing outdoors! Pop your tools, inks, and a small cutting mat into a bag and set up your creative station in the garden or on a balcony. Just be mindful of wind, sun, and space when printing—and always pack a damp cloth for easy clean-up.

Whether you're a seasoned lino printer or just lino-curious, summer is a wonderful time to explore this tactile, calming craft. Let nature spark your imagination and give yourself space to play.

Want to dive in?

Our August kit is the perfect companion—keep your eyes peeled for the reveal later this month to find out what you'll be making! ✨