Block Printing for Kids — Easy and Fun Lesson Plan with FAS Studio Printing Ink
- FAS | Fine Art Supplies
- Jul 4
- 2 min read
Today we’re going to make bold and colourful block prints using a simple carving technique. Kids will love seeing their own designs come to life again and again, and this is a perfect way to introduce them to the world of printmaking.
What You Will Need
Soft rubber printing or lino block (easier for kids)
Child-safe lino cutter or adult help for carving
FAS Studio Printing Ink
Ink roller (brayer)
Spoon or baren (for pressing)
Printmaking paper (or even a tote bag!)
Pencil and paper for sketches
Carbon paper (optional, for tracing)
Cutting mat
Aprons (this can get messy!)
Let’s Get Started
Sketch the Design: Ask children to draw a simple, bold design on paper — think animals, flowers, or patterns. Remind them words will print backwards, so leave out lettering for now or reverse it carefully.
Transfer the Design: If you like, use carbon paper to transfer the drawing onto the rubber block. Otherwise, freehand drawing on the block is fine too.
Carve the Block: Show kids how to carve away the parts they don’t want printed. Take it slow. Always carve away from the body, and adults can help younger children.
Ink It Up: Roll a small amount of FAS Studio Printing Ink onto the brayer, then roll it over the raised parts of the block. Not too much ink or it’ll go blurry!
Print Your Picture: Place paper on top of the inked block and press firmly with a spoon or baren. Lift the paper and see the magic! Let them print as many as they like, trying different colours and papers.
Let Them Dry: Lay prints flat or hang them up to dry. If they want, kids can even add watercolours later for more colour.
Show It Off!: Once dry, talk about how real artists sign and number their prints. Let kids proudly write their names and edition numbers.
Block printing is a wonderful, hands-on project from Ideas for Art that children will absolutely enjoy. It’s simple, creative, and lets them explore pattern and design in a way that feels like magic. You’ll be amazed how excited they are to make more prints!
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