How to Make a Woodblock Print Bookmark from Scrap Wood
Woodblock printing is a classic Japanese art form that can be adapted into a beautiful, handmade bookmark using scrap wood. This step-by-step guide will show you how to carve your design into wood, apply ink, and create a striking print perfect for gifts or personal use.
What You'll Need
・Scrap wood (flat pieces)
・Carbon paper
・Pencil
・Masking tape
・Carving tools
・Ink (water-based)
・Roller
・Paper (for printing)
・Baren (or a flat object to press the paper if you don't have one)
・String (if you want to add it to the bookmark)
・Wood carving tools: Like our Wood Carving Knife Set – AOGAMI Blue Paper Steel #2 (7 pcs)
The Creation Process: Step by Step
1. Transfer Your Design
Begin by transferring your design onto the woodblock using carbon paper. Secure the paper and wood with masking tape to prevent shifting. Keep in mind that the printed image will be reversed—this is especially important if your design includes text.
[Text Section]
[Illustration Section]
2. Carve the Woodblock
Carve away the areas you don’t want to print, leaving the raised sections to receive ink. Start by cutting grooves along the edges of your design with a skew chisel; these grooves act as walls that stop tools like round chisels from slipping into areas you don’t want to carve. Use various carving knives to carefully remove the unwanted wood. (Remember to always carve away from your free hand to stay safe.)
Pro Tip: Applying a light color to the woodblock before carving can help you see the design clearly.
[Text Section]
[Illustration Section]
3. Ink and Print
Roll a thin layer of ink evenly onto the raised surfaces of your woodblock using a roller. Place your printing paper on top and press firmly with a baren or a flat object, making sure the ink transfers evenly without smudges.
[Text Section]
[Illustration Section]
4. Assemble the Bookmark
To make a sturdy, double-sided bookmark, glue the two printed sheets together. To prevent ink bleed-through, add a plain sheet between them.
5. Add a Cord
For convenience and style, punch a hole at the top of your bookmark and thread a cord or string through it. To keep with the theme of using scrap materials, you can even create a cord by twisting thin strips of wood shavings.
6. Final Touches
Your woodblock print bookmark is complete! For extra durability and protection against water or dirt, consider laminating it.
Pro Tip from the Kakuri Workshop
Woodblock printing is a technique deeply familiar in Japan, often introduced in elementary school art classes. It connects us to generations of artists and artisans who used this method to create prints that tell stories. The charm of this process lies not only in the final print but in the careful carving and the hands-on interaction with materials.
How do art classes in your country introduce printing or carving?
Tools Used in This Project
・Wood Carving Knife Set – AOGAMI Blue Paper Steel #2 (7 pcs)
Includes: flat chisel 9mm, skew chisel 9mm, V gouge 6mm, U gouges 3mm & 9mm, shallow U gouge 12mm
Creating a woodblock print bookmark from scrap wood is a fantastic way to honor traditional Japanese craft while making something uniquely yours. The balance of carving, inking, and printing offers a satisfying connection to centuries of artistry—and results in a bookmark with a story you made yourself.
