- Definition
Block printing is a way to make pictures or patterns by carving an image into a block, putting ink on the raised parts, and then pressing the block onto paper or fabric.
Carving a design into a block of linoleum, rolling ink onto the raised surface, and pressing it onto paper creates a block print.
How to teach this in 30 seconds
Try this analogy: Block printing is like making potato stamps — you carve a design into a block, dip it in paint, and press it onto paper to make a copy.
Ask your child: If you made a stamp, what simple shape would you carve into it?
Common mix-up: Kids might think you just paint a picture on the block. The key is that you carve away the parts you don't want to print, leaving a raised design to press onto paper.
Examples
- Using a rubber stamp to press an image onto a page.
- Making a print by carving a design into a potato and dipping it in paint.
- Creating a repeating pattern on fabric by repeatedly pressing an inked block.
block print is a term used in Ontario’s Kindergarten to Grade 8 curriculum.
Where this shows up
The descriptions on this page are SmartStudy’s own original, plain-language writing — not the Ministry’s wording. They are aligned to the Ontario Curriculum, © King’s Printer for Ontario. For the Ministry’s official wording, see the source link below. SmartStudy is an independent service and is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or sponsored by the Government of Ontario or the Ministry of Education. Ontario Curriculum and Resources ↗
