Clean the surface of any little bits that might get in the way of the print. Lay a thick paper down to protect your table because the ink tends to get through the fabric. This will also help to even out the surface. You want it as smooth as possible.

I demonstrate with industrial felt as my padded surface, but you can fold a low texture fabric a few times to act as a cushion instead. You want to try out your block a few different ways before you decide how you’re comfortable and which way your block looks best.

See how it looks when you print on a padded surface and a hard surface. The padded will have a more even look but tends to print lighter. 

Get a feel for the brayer and make sure the ink is rolling smoothly onto your block

If you notice any area in your design you need to adjust, wash the block with soapy warm water, let it dry completely, and then go back in with your carving tool

You will need to do the same washing every time you change colors as well