Foam-Plate (Polystyrene) Block
A grocery-store meat tray, washed and pressed with a pencil, is the easiest relief block in the world.
Press a drawing into a foam meat tray with a pencil, roll ink across the top, and stamp paper onto it.
- ▸Anywhere you press down sits below the surface and stays white.
- ▸The flat parts left high catch the ink — like a soft, instant linocut.
- ▸Reverse your design first, especially any text, since stamping flips it.
Steps
- 01
Cut the tray flat, removing any rim.
- 02
Press your drawing into the foam with the pencil — go deep enough that the line is clearly recessed.
- 03
Roll ink across the surface with a brayer; ink stays on the high parts.
- 04
Lay paper on top and rub firmly with your hand or a spoon.
- 05
Peel back gently. Re-ink and print again.
Materials4
- — A flat polystyrene foam tray (meat tray, takeout container) — washed thoroughly
- — A dull pencil or empty ballpoint pen
- — Water-based block printing ink
- — A foam brayer
Safety
Mostly hand tools and inert materials. Standard studio hygiene applies.
- ☐Work in a ventilated area; keep food and drink out of the studio
- ☐Read each material's safety data sheet (SDS) before starting
- ☐Have water, soap, and a first-aid kit accessible
Heuristic guidance derived from listed materials. Always consult each material's safety data sheet (SDS) and a qualified instructor before attempting.
Notes
Yields dozens of prints. Reverse your design (especially text!) before pressing. Perfect for kids and classroom workshops.