2x8ft lino #1 - drawing and carving

So as part of my thesis i am carving three 2x8 ft linocuts. Insane? Yes. Fun? YES!
I bought the linoleum as one large piece at a carpet and flooring store. It's not battleship lino but I find it actually works even better for very delicate carving because it has a bit more stable surface not quite as porous as the battleship. So. I so far only drew about one third of the lino and started carving, now I'll alternate between drawing and carving since it gives my hand a bit of a rest.
Between Drawing, carving and sewing my fabric pieces my left hand is hurting badly with Carpal Tunnel. I am so happy I had the surgery done 3 years ago on my right hand. I really wouldn't be able to do any of this otherwise. But I keep wishing I would have had it done on my left as well. Well gotta deal with it. Anyways.. here some pictures of my monster of a linocut.

I don't have a table long enough for it, so i have to improvise.


Only the pattern will be carved. not the figure. It's just there as guide.