I thought I’d post this older print before…

You know, sometimes you pour your heart into a piece, and it just doesn't quite hit the mark. That's exactly how I feel about this vibrant double linocut print of a skull on a yellow wooden panel. I remember thinking the overlapping layers of red and green ink would create this really cool, textured effect, and while it is graphic and somewhat distorted, characteristic of printmaking on wood, it just doesn't resonate with me. It’s funny how a piece can look one way in your head and then completely different when it’s finished. Working with linocut on wooden panels has its unique challenges. Unlike paper, the wood itself adds another layer of texture and sometimes unpredictability. You have to really think about how the grain will interact with your carving and how the ink will sit. For this particular skull print, I was aiming for something bold, almost raw, but the distortion feels a bit too much, even for my usual style. I’ve tried a few of these, and some have turned out great, but this one feels like a miss. It brings up an interesting point for us printmakers, though: what do you do with the pieces you don't love? My initial thought, as you read in my post, was to just burn it! A dramatic end to a dramatic piece, right? But then I thought, maybe there’s a lesson here. Sometimes a 'failed' piece isn't truly a failure; it’s an experiment, a learning curve. Perhaps it’s a stepping stone to the next great idea. Or maybe someone else might see something in it that I don't. That's why I wanted to share it here, with you all on MyBlocksOnline. It's a great community for sharing our wins and our… less-than-wins. I've learned a few things working with linocut on wood that might help others. Firstly, embrace the wood's character. Don't fight it. Sometimes the natural imperfections add to the charm. Secondly, don't be afraid to experiment with different ink consistencies. A thicker ink might sit better on a textured wooden surface. And always, always take good notes on your process – what worked, what didn't, what kind of wood, what type of ink, how many layers. That way, even if a print doesn't turn out, you've gained valuable insight for your next project. So, instead of just tossing it onto a bonfire, I'm putting it out there. What are your thoughts on this skull print? Have you ever had a linocut project that just didn't meet your expectations? How do you handle those moments as an artist? I'd love to hear your experiences and tips for working with linocut, especially on unconventional surfaces like painted wooden panels. Your feedback might just save this vibrant, albeit imperfect, artwork from a fiery fate!