Speedball Linoleum Cutter Kit Assortment #1 - Linocut Carving Tools for Block Printing, Includes 5 Blades

This was my first time trying my hand at making a stamp. It is definitely an art, and the pattern that I was trying to create was not for beginners, but the tools are perfect. One just needs to practice and be patient

Im not sure if it was just mine but the pieces wouldnt fit correctly and either would keep falling out, or getting stuck in the handle.

These have a variety of points which allow me to carve very small stamps as well as larger areas with ease. The tips are very sharp and requires little pressure to cut (at least when cutting a fairly soft block). I also like that the tips all store inside the handle The bad about this tool is that I often twist the tip too far, making it hard to change tips. It would be nice if it were a little easier to change tips.

I had experience with this product

I used this carver with Blicks E-Z cut so I couldnt really tell if the blades where dull but it did cut really smooth.

I dont use this for linoleum, but for pumpkin carving. It works okay on light/ pliant surfaces, but the blade tends to come loose, get stuck, or turn sideways on anything more resistant. Since its not the use the product is intended for, I cant really say that it makes it deficient, but it should be considered if the products youre using it on might need a tougher tool.

The handle is fine but all of the blades have quality issues. The ones I received all had burrs on the cutting edge. One of them had a crooked cutting edge too. They didnt used to be this bad back in the day. Step it up Speedball!

Great! Love that all the blades store in the handle. Grab and go!

Easily to use for any level printmaker.

I realize that this is an inexpensive tool for beginners. But I also read reviews from experienced lino cutters that they really like this tool. I hate it. First of all, when using it as a palm tool (fitting the rounded end into the palm to push the blade across the lino) the screw lid keeps coming off and all the blades fall out. Ive already lost one blade that took me two days to find. Second, they lose their sharpness very quickly. Ive been using it for two days and already the small V tool is dull. Since you have to buy new blades all the time you might as well spend a little extra money and get a few decent tools. I cant afford the really expensive tools, but I spent around $40 for four Mikisyo Power Grip tools and they are much superior. You have to sharpen them so you also need to buy a whet stone or slip strop, but its well worth it for the longevity, ease of use and MUCH better cutting. Oh, and the blade screw comes loose while you are cutting, and the blades get stuck and I have to pull them out with pliers. Other than that........