Letterpress served as the primary mass-communication and publishing method for centuries since it became popular in the 1440s in Germany. Movable wood type became widespread in Western letterpress in the 19th century because it was lighter, cheaper, and a durable alternative to metal. Wood type is generally larger than metal type, and great for signs, posters, and other uses for which large text is appropriate. The class covers:

• How to set a short phrase using wood type (two to four words on two lines). 
• How to use furniture, reglets (thin strips used to create blank spaces), other spacing materials, and magnets to secure your type in a galley.
• How to hand ink your type.
• How to use the provisional presses.
• How to use the Vandercook proof press.
• How to ensure letterpress equipment and materials, some of which are antique, remain in good shape.
• Cleanup procedures.

You'll also learn about other letterpress materials in the studio that you'll be able to use, once certified, including LEGO(R) dots and P22 blox (see dry-inc.com).  

Details

• You'll learn all the skills to get certified to use wood type, provisional presses, and the Vandercook proof press independently. Taking the class doesn't automatically confer certification.

Class Policies

• Ages 14 and up are welcome.