This 3-hour workshop is an orientation session for all students who are new to letterpress printing and want to learn the basics of setting type and printing using our Vandercook cylinder presses. The workshop will begin with a tour of the Book Arts Studio, followed by an overview of the history of letterpress printing, an introduction to letterpress tools and materials, and guided instruction through typesetting and printing a collaborative poster or one-sheet booklet.

Bring a brief piece of writing – quote, proverb, poem, etc. (3 lines maximum) – to set and print during the workshop. We’ll be getting inky and working on our feet for the entire workshop, so wear clothes you don’t mind getting dirty, along with comfortable, closed-toed shoes.

We will ensure that students understand proper techniques for presswork, including setting metal type, utilizing the Vandercook cylinder presses, clean-up, and letterpress project planning. Upon completion of the orientation, students will be able to work on independent letterpress projects during our supervised Open Studio hours. No prior experience is required, and all tools and materials will be provided. This workshop is restricted to currently enrolled undergraduate and graduate students.