Ref: S1D42888
This fast-paced, one-day course will be hands-on and inky. You will learn about many aspects of letterpress printing. This is a jam-packed day with information about how to set up printing presses and generally how to start the whole letterpress printing process. There will be tips on how to achieve the best possible print, where to source machines, maintenance advice, the history of letterpress and information that can be used across many other printing disciplines.
During the course, you will learn how to handle type, different inking techniques and effects and the fundamentals of design and composition with type. You will use a selection of the tutor’s wood block type collection to print your own unique poster/posters, alongside the use of the tutor’s 1950’s George Pallister Proofing press or West Dean College’s very own Farley or Albion presses.
Over the course of the day, you will create a custom letterpress poster/posters.
By the end of the course, you will have learnt new letterpress design, handling and printing skills, and you will have produced a letterpress poster/s.
Ink, 3 x sheets of Hereford printing paper and newsprint
An apron
A variety of materials are available in the Gardens Gatehouse.
Please wear appropriate clothing/aprons for the workshop or studio. This includes stout covered footwear, i.e. no open-toes or sandals.
Student registration: 9.15am-9.30am
Course teaching: 9.30am-5pm
Morning session: 9.30am-1pm
Lunch break: 1pm-2pm (lunch included)
Afternoon session: 2pm-5pm
Teaching finishes: 5pm
Tom Boulton studied typographic design at the London College of Printing then became a self-taught letterpress printer. With over ten years’ experience he has been commissioned by the likes of Tate Modern, Fortnum and Mason, Southbank Centre and The Design Museum. He has features in publications such as Creative Review, The Telegraph and Country Living, and has won a D&AD award.
Residential option available. Find out accommodation costs and how to book here.
Take the next step in your creative practice, with foundation level to Masters in Fine Art study.
Depending on your experience, start with an Online Foundation Certificate in Art and Design (one year, part-time), a Foundation Diploma in Art and Design made up of 10 short courses taken over two years (part-time) or advance your learning with our BA (Hons) Art and Contemporary Craft: Materials, Making, and Place (six years part-time). All will help you develop core skills, find direction in your practice and build an impressive portfolio in preparation for artist opportunities or higher-level study. See all degree and diploma courses.
