with Bethany Rahn
Saturday, May 18; 10am–4pm CT
This in-person letterpress workshop focuses on setting metal type and building familiarity with printing on the Vandercook press. Learn how to navigate MCBA’s type collection, how type is stored and organized, and how to arrange it in a composing stick for setting a text. Training will be provided on line justification, kerning (space between letters and words), and methods for holding type together (or “locking up” a form) for printing. Procedures for maintaining a community type collection and print studio will also be covered, in addition to a review of basic press operation, care, and safety. This workshop is an excellent refresher and opportunity to get reacquainted with MCBA’s presses and print studio.
After participating in this workshop, participants are encouraged to register for Letterpress Labs to continue building skills and confidence with letterpress printing while working on independent projects. Participation in Letterpress 4: Editioning also qualifies printers to rent equipment to work independently in MCBA’s print studio.
Experience required
Certificate: 6 hours, Category A or B
$147/participant (10% discount for MCBA members) + $15 materials fee
$74 for BIPOC/Financial scholarship participants (10% discount for MCBA members) + $15 materials fee
MCBA offers two scholarship types for workshops—Financial Hardship Scholarships and BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, People of Color) Scholarships—to honor equity and increase access and artistic opportunities for those who have historically been underrepresented in the book arts. For individuals to whom these scholarships do not apply, register at the Adult rate and, if you are able, consider making a donation when registering to support MCBA’s efforts to make scholarships available.
Please note: Registration closes 5/13 at midnight (CT).
