What is Lino Printing?

25th June 2026

Two hands carving away lino with tools to create a pattern to print with.

Lino Printing is a traditional printmaking method that was born in the 19th century. It then became popular amongst artists and makers such as Pablo Picasso in the 20th century. The method utilises the floor covering linoleum to carve out shapes, patterns or scenes of the maker’s desire.

Lino printing requires the participant to utilise special carving tools to mindfully carve into the lino with repetitive movements. As the linoleum material is softer than wood, it can be cut away more easily. Once the pattern is cut, ink is applied to the raised surface. Paper or fabric is then pressed onto the block, transferring the beautiful design onto its surface.

In our upcoming workshop, Intuitive Lino Printing, tutor Jo Shearer will be demonstrating the reduction method using continuous line and mark-making to create a vibrant abstract print. This workshop is all about process and creativity as you listen to your instincts, carve your lino with repetitive, therapeutic movements, and let your mood guide your choice of colour and application.

This workshop is perfect for anyone looking to experiment, play, and connect with the joy of print making!

About the Tutor

Tutor, Jo Shearer is an artist and art educator living and working in Leicestershire. Her belief is that art is for everyone. It is another language for expressing and communicating our experiences, thoughts and emotions which often reflect the world around us and how we fit into it. Art can demonstrate a tremendous level of skill and be aesthetically pleasing; however, the greatest strength is in its capacity to express and unite people.

Jo studied Visual BA (Hons) Arts and English Literature and a PGCE in secondary art. She taught in schools and colleges in Hertfordshire and Leicestershire for over 10 years.

After leaving mainstream education she continued her love of teaching through tutoring and went on to develop workshops like this one. She enjoys the freedom to work in a variety of media and has an ever-increasing love for print.

Jo enjoys nurturing creativity and developing individuals’ skills to build confidence in their own work as well as evoking a sense of calm and release of emotions through the process of making. Her personal work explores the spaces that we inhabit, the collection of experiences and emotions that connect us to a place and the inherent beauty of the natural world in all its forms.

Join Jo on Saturday 4 July, 10:30am – 4:30pm to explore the art of Intuitive Lino Printing in this one-day beginner’s workshop.

If you want to explore the range of creative courses and workshops available at Attenborough Arts Centre, visit our website.