When you try to cat a file to /dev/lp0, does the prompt return, or does it sit there until you hit control-C? Why the Blazer works in DOS/Windows and not Linux is a complete mystery. As for the kernel, I would think that parallel port support and printing support would be all that is required. I usually add EEE1284 status support, but I don't think that's strictly necessary. Is the computer you have the Blazer on dual boot? Or does it just have Linux? From what you've posted, I get the idea that it's just the laptop that has Windows on it.
