Solid Cherry Blocks
Prunus Serotina
Straight sawn cherry is the traditional wood used in Japan for moku hanga (the Japanese style of printmaking). These straight (or flat) sawn blocks are made of the highest quality black cherry available in the U.S. This wood is so rare and highly prized by furniture that it is shipped to countries all over the world, including Japan.
The planks are air dried (compared to kiln dried wood, air dried blocks are less apt to chip while being carved), then cut to size. One side is planed smooth and guaranteed to be free of knots, gum pockets or voids; the other side can be planed or sanded smooth and carved.
The wood is straight grained and cuts very smoothly. However, because it is a hard wood, sharp tools are essential for smooth and easy carving. Very small details can be cut into these blocks and printed without the wood breaking down.
DO NOT USE ON A PRESS - for Hand Printing ONLY
Plank wood warps easily so we do not recommend using these blocks on a press. They can be flattened by running them through a joiner and planer, but there is a good chance that the blocks will warp again. Cherry faced plywood, available from hardwood suppliers and cabinet makers, would be a better solution when printing on a press.
Grain
In all cases the grain runs parallel to the longest dimension. Because there is so little difference in the hardness of the growth rings, cherry will not print a grain pattern.
Sizes
4 x 6 and 6 x 8 blocks are 1.25" (3cm) thick. 8 x 10 and 9 x 12 blocks are 15/16" (2.3cm) thick.
Custom sizes and discounts for volume buying are not available.
Currently out of stock. We have not been able to contact our last supplier and are not sure when we will be able to offer Cherry Blocks again. Please check back later and thank you for your interest.