Asked on Nov 19, 2015

Anybody ever use Carved Indian Wood Blocks to print on wood?

While visiting the Cancer Society Thrift Store, I found a giant box of carved Indian Wood Blocks, usually used for printing on fabric. I really want to try using them to add texture to an interior door that needs some love. Anybody ever used these on wood and have any tips? I'll post my results either way!
Here are the six blocks I rescued from the thrift store - a steal at $2/block.
  8 answers
  • Janet Pizaro Janet Pizaro on Nov 20, 2015
    There is no direct link for this,however if you google repurposing carved indian blocks you will find some photos and inspirations.
  • Rosie Walsh Rosie Walsh on Nov 21, 2015
    I have several of these and will be following this for inspiration. One thing I've done is adding a small piece of wood, cut at an angle on the handle to use as small wall shelf. I mounted antique carved Santos. A steal indeed @ $2.
    • Deborah Sale-Butler Deborah Sale-Butler on Nov 21, 2015
      @Rosie Walsh I look forward to doing something cool with the blocks themselves, after I use them to print. I'd love to see what you did!
  • Charro Charro on Nov 21, 2015
    Using them as stamps would work. Practice on paper first. Display in an open frame with a linen background afterwards they are pretty.
  • Rosie Walsh Rosie Walsh on Nov 22, 2015
    charro534, what would the paint medium be? I'd want something that could be cleaned off so the block isn't permanently stained. Thanks, Rosie
  • Bron Bron on Nov 23, 2015
    I think they would make a very interesting wall display after you use them. If you could somehow hang them in a random pattern on the wall I think they would be quite a conversation piece. The photos of the trays may give you an idea on how you may like to arrange them on a smaller scale. Also another idea would be to include each one inside a frame without glass then arrange the framed 'art' in a more structured display.
  • Rosie Walsh Rosie Walsh on Nov 23, 2015
    Deborah Sale-Butler, Will get someone to help me post a picture. I'm such a nimrod about doing it, but will try to share. Meanwhile, I want to know what type of paint can be used for printing that won't permanently stain the wood blocks.
  • Sandra Sandra on Nov 23, 2015
    I believe if you look around you will find a water based paint that can be washed off the wood blocks. I am sure if you do some research, you will find someone who can give you information or even lessons.
  • Caroline Caroline on Nov 24, 2015
    These would be fabulous to use in gelli printing techniques.