A woodcut is created by painstakingly etching parts of a wooden block, using special metal tools, to make a picture. Once the woodcut is complete, you can make a print by painting the woodcut and pressing it onto a surface so that the chipped away parts create a light and dark effect image. Dating back to the 1400s, you don’t have to go far to find this traditional illustration style – it's on most banknotes and on the walls of most churches.
The woodcut style translates particularly well into tattoo design. Often using one colour (the best one – black) the designs contrast against even the darkest of skin tones, making the piece pop. Thin, tight lines and shading ensure the design retains a high level of detail and just like woodcut art, they are made to last!
London is home to some of the most interesting artists that adopt this style so take a look at these designs from parlours including Sang Bleu Tattoo, Into You Tattoo and Shangri-La.
Unicorn elbow piece created at Sang Bleu in Dalston, London.
Photo: @sbldnttt
A very interesting rendition of the Jabberwocky from Alice and Wonderland; it seems any design created in the woodcut style instantly becomes more mysterious and classic.
Photo: @mxmttt
The intricate lines add a sense of timelessness to these designs, rooted in traditional art history.
Photo: @sbldnttt
Boozy angels straight over the nipples – excruciating – not recommended!
Photo: @sbldnttt
This tarot card inspired piece is a little bolder and illustrative than some of the previous designs. We like the way it looks framed too.
Photo: @iljahummel
The style lends itself to scenes of a biblical nature.
Photo: @sbldnttt
We love the expressions and poses on these two ladies; the more you look at the details, the more interesting this tattoo gets.
Photo: @fredcovilLike what you see? How about some more R29 goodness, right here?
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