1. Introduction to Letterpress

Letterpress printing is the impression of metal types into paper, a technique that produces beautifully luminous fine printing.

The workshop will include an

• Introduction to letterpress, a brief history of printing technologies, demonstration of printing techniques, discussion of the aesthetic differences between metal type and magnesium or photopolymer plates.
• Getting to know the press: platen vs. proof presses, parts of the press, recognising a tight tympan, making a good impression, checking roller height, good inking, locking up the forme, pulling a proof.
• Presswork: feeding the press, watching out for slur and slap, maintaining ink levels, avoiding offset, maintaining registration, backing up, cleaning up.

Participants will receive extensive notes and references to sources of information.

Tutor: Carolyn Fraser (VIC)

Carolyn Fraser is a writer and printer. Her imprint, Idlewild Press, specialises in limited-edition artists’ books and custom-designed ephemera. Her books are included in national and international collections including the New York Public Library, Yale University and the Library of Congress. She has taught letterpress and artist book production at the San Francisco Center for the Book, Cleveland Institute of Art and the Victorian Writers' Centre.

Registration

More information: BOOKS.07 brochure
Book a workshop: Registration form