When Valerie Lueth of Tugboat Printshop sets out to make a woodblock print, it’s rare that she only uses a single block. Instead, sometimes up to five distinctly carved pieces are incorporated, each containing different details that, when combined, create a total image. To make the prints, which are usually limited to editions of 100 or so, Lueth rolls the meticulously hand-carved blocks with colorful ink, layering them precisely in order. Black outlines define flora and fauna, for instance, which are first laid down as colorful shapes.
Tugboat Printshop is celebrating its 20th anniversary this year, and for a limited time, there’s a discount on original woodcut prints in the shop. Keep an eye out on the studio’s Instagram for updates about future editions, and Lueth is always sharing loads of making-of images on Flickr.
Printing process of “Songbird & Cricket”
One of five woodblocks used for “Songbird & Cricket”
“Glowing Rose” (2024), five-block woodblock on BFK tan paper, 24 x 15 inches, edition of 100
Blocks used to print “Glowing Rose”
“Glowing Rose” being pulled from the final block
“Dangling Grapes” (2025), four-block woodcut on BFK tan paper, 20 x 14 inches, edition of 100
Blocks used to print “Dangling Grapes”
“Steadfast Turtle” (2025), four-block woodcut on BFK tan paper, 11 x 14 inches, edition of 100
Four woodblocks used for “Steadfast Turtle”
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