Trace a design or create a freehand design using a pencil directly onto the ink block. Do not use a pen in case you need to erase mistakes.
Carve the design you created on the ink block by using the linoleum cutting tool, which is available from hobby store or art supply retailer. When cutting away at the ink block, remember what you cut away will not be transferred onto the paper, as the ink only sets on the uncarved areas of the block. You will be cutting away the background of the image.
Place the ink onto a paper plate and grab a small paint roller, which also is available from a hobby store or an art supply retailer. Cover the paint roller with ink and carefully roll the ink onto the block. Do not place an excess amount of ink onto the roller as this will cause the ink to seep into the carved areas of the block. If the paint roller is too big or keeps placing ink within the carved areas of your block, use a small paint brush to place the ink on the block.
Test your design before placing the ink block on your card or other item. Place your ink block on a solid surface and carefully set a piece of scrap paper on the ink-covered surface of the block. Using a ruler, rub the surface of the paper to ensure all of the ink transfers.
Carefully remove the paper from the ink block and examine your image. If you notice that the details are not how you wish them to be, wash off the ink block with warm water and make adjustments to the carved image. Perform several more tests before making the final application.