Learn the basics of setting type using the Vandercook: how to determine paper grain, use a pica ruler, mix ink, ink the press, and print. After deciding on a theme, you'll pair off with another student to produce either a broadside (a one-sheet poster) or a chapbook (including a colophon, text, title, and half-title page). We'll pull proofs, make corrections, and print multiple copies, then distribute type and spacing and clean up. For the chapbook, we'll also cut and wax thread and sew one book as a sample for finishing the edition at home.

Letterpress printing, the technology of Gutenberg, has been enjoying an enormous revival. Come learn what it's all about in our array of letterpress classes, from introductory surveys to advanced techniques. After taking Letterpress I-III or the equivalent, you can rent time on the Center's presses. To schedule studio rental, contact the studio manager at studiorental@sfcb.org.

This is a filtered air class.

You can see all our current letterpress workshops by clicking here.

Tools List for Workshop (Glossary and Local Suppliers)
No materials needed