Class Descriptions
Vandercook Maintenance
This workshop is an in-depth review of the parts and functions of the Vandercook taking you beyond cranking the press and into the mechanical what and why essential for troubleshooting. Learn all the points of maintenance, lubrication and cleaning and become familiar with the differences between models. Whether you use studio presses, own your own press or are thinking of buying one, this workshop will provide excellent direction for your future press work, so bring your questions, press photos and/or broken parts. Paul will also share his extensive written material with the class. Check out his website and blog: vandercookpress.info
Letterpress Finesse
Improve the technical quality of your presswork in this problem-solving workshop. With a focus on production printing using a Vandercook, delve into the minutia of makeready, imposition, lockup, and form rollers to obtain proper inking and impression. Other topics include choosing paper and inks, and using photopolymer plates. Bravely bring examples of your worst printing to critique in class.
Letterpress as Artists Prints
This class is ideal for artists who wish to explore the printmaking possibilities of letterpress printing. Letterpress was a trade craft with its own rich traditions and history that after having reached its technical zenith (and eclipse by offset lithography) has transcended into a means of fine art making. Participants will be introduced to the fundamentals of hand typesetting and presswork (the control of inking and impression); they will then experiment with wood type and alternative relief image-making processes and painterly inking techniques.
Letterpress Fundementals
In this course you will learn the basics of hand typesetting and letterpress printing. We will cover the essentials of good presswork, including inking, imposition and impression and move on to discuss typefaces, paper, incorporating illustrations and adding color. You will develop your own small composition(s), such as greeting, business or postcards. Bring words and ideas to class and be ready to roll up your sleeves.