Cut out the background image from Safeprint Polystyrene using a craft knife.
![](https://blog.handprinted.co.uk/images/blog/Safeprint-Softcut1.jpg)
Ink up the polystyrene using Speedball Block Printing Inks. These inks are waterbased and intermixable.
![](https://blog.handprinted.co.uk/images/blog/Safeprint-Softcut2.jpg)
Place the paper on top of the inked up block and, using a clean roller or brayer, press firmly so the ink moves from the Safeprint to the paper.
![](https://blog.handprinted.co.uk/images/blog/Safeprint-Softcut3.jpg)
Draw out the seed heads onto the Softcut. We used a piece of tracing paper for registration. Cut out the outside of the seed heads and a few lines on the inside for texture.
![](https://blog.handprinted.co.uk/images/blog/Safeprint-Softcut4.jpg)
Ink up the Softcut. Place the Softcut ink side down on the printed paper. Use a dry roller and press until the ink sticks to the paper. Turn it all over and re-press firmly.
![](https://blog.handprinted.co.uk/images/blog/Safeprint-Softcut5.jpg)
Once again using tracing paper, draw out the final outline onto a Softcut block. Cut away everything apart from the details.
![](https://blog.handprinted.co.uk/images/blog/Safeprint-Softcut6.jpg)
Ink up this plate and print as previously.
![](https://blog.handprinted.co.uk/images/blog/Safeprint-Softcut7.jpg)
The finished piece!
![](https://blog.handprinted.co.uk/images/blog/Safeprint-Softcut8.jpg)