Learn all aspects of letterpress printing through getting hands-on and inky on this course.
Each session will be jam-packed with information, from how to set up printing presses, how to achieve the best possible print, where to source machines, maintenance advice, history of letterpress, and other tips that can be used across many other printing disciplines.
During the sessions, you will learn how to handle and set type, as well as different inking techniques and effects. You will learn about the fundamentals of design and composition with type, utilise a selection of the tutor’s own woodblock type collection, print your own unique poster/s and use the tutor’s 1950’s George Pallister Proofing press or West Dean College’s very own Farley or Albion presses.
Over the course, you will create a custom edition of letterpress print/s, print and hand bind a personal notebook and print some ephemeral items to take home.
By the end of the course, you will have learnt many letterpress printing skills for use in your future creative endeavours.
Included
Ink, newsprint, 5 sheets of printing paper, newsprint, card, copier paper, low odour solvent, unwaxed book binding thread and needle.
What students need to bring
Apron
Available to buy
Available from shop:
A good variety of art materials including inks and papers
Additional information
Please wear appropriate clothing/aprons for the workshop or studio. This includes stout covered footwear, i.e. no open-toes or sandals.
Arrival Day - this is the first date listed above
Courses start early evening. Residential students to arrive from 4pm, non-residential students to arrive by 6.45pm.
6.45pm: Welcome, followed by dinner (included).
8 - 9pm: First teaching session, attendance is essential.
Daily timetable
Classes 9.15 - 5pm, lunch is included.
From 6.30pm: Dinner (included for residential students).
Evening working - students may have access to workshops until 9pm, but only with their tutor's permission and provided any health and safety guidelines are observed.
Last day
Classes 9.15am - 3pm, lunch is included.
Residential students are to vacate their rooms by 10am please.
(This timetable is for courses of more than one day in length. The tutor may make slight variations)