Thanks for the useful tips Tricia, will give it a go and let you know how I get on.

Hi all, okay a stamp is where you put the paper at the bottom and then the inked plate (stamp) on top and use pressure to push down....usually works for smaller plates, with less inked surface. A relief plate (lino print) needs the plate at the bottom and the paper on top. To print by hand you do need a thin paper, but you should be able to print on paper up to about 180gsm by hand quite easy. Make sure your plate has sufficient ink. Not so much its filling in your lines, but when you roller off your inking plate it should have a suede texture. Place your paper on top and lightly press with your hand to stick to the plate (if a very light pressure doesn't stick it, chances are you need more ink). Now use the back of a wooden spoon or other flat item (I have some glass paperweights) to rub small circles over your paper to transfer your design. Lots of artists hand print with wooden spoons, even those who have pressed often use them for small prints. Give it a try and let me know if you have any problems.

Thanks for the tips, I'll try putting the paper on top and see if that helps. I'll keep experimenting with different papers and let you know what works.

Well when you work out the problem ,Sue ,it will be worth it.Great design.

Love the design Sue. Just a thought but do you put the paper on top of the linocut, or the linocut on top of the paper? I was told to put the paper on top of the inked linocut and then you can use a roller to press it down and that gives more pressure on the paper and should give a bolder print. If you are already doing this ...then I have no other suggestions I'm afraid.

I had the same issue with my designs earlier in the year. It’s a bit of trial and error and frustration Sue. Perhaps Tricia will give you some hints.