Create or select a design for your woodblock. Woodblocks are best suited to bold, dramatic designs so a simple drawing or an uncluttered photograph as inspiration is ideal. Geometric or linear designs lend themselves to woodblock prints, and are acceptable choices if you're uncertain of your drawing skills. Designs requiring an extensive amount of detail work are best left for another medium.
Select the colors for your woodblock print. Choose one color for the background, one for the middle ground and one for the accents. The colors should harmonize but must provide enough contrast to make the design stand out. Combine a bright color with dull, neutral colors to let the colors pop and add pizazz. Select black as an accent for dramatic impact.
Design the color placement for your woodblock print by making a photocopy of your original artwork so it remains undamaged. Color the photocopy with markers or colored pencils in the three colors you have chosen for your finished print. Creating a colored prototype will give you a feel for the finished design so you can make any changes desired before carving the woodblocks.
Transfer your design to the woodblocks.Trace around the background color areas with a charcoal pencil. Draw with heavy strokes, applying a thick line. Place the photocopy face down on the first woodblock and rub hard with a spoon to transfer the charcoal lines. Remove the paper and trace over the lines on the block with a marker so they will be permanent. Repeat the process for the middle ground and accent areas and their corresponding blocks.
Carve away the areas of each woodblock not contained within your outlines. For a smooth look, carve deeply so none of the area will print. More shallow cuts will leave some texture remaining. Create texture in the sections to be printed by making shallow accent cuts. Cross-hatching can add a sense of depth and shading to woodcuts.
Print your woodblocks. Beginning with the background block, apply ink with a roller and spread evenly across the block. Place a piece of paper on top of the block. Rub with a spoon or rolling pin to transfer the ink. Allow the ink to dry. Repeat the process with the second and third block, taking care to align each block with the printed image.