Studios & Equipment
MCBA’s studios are currently open for Studio Labs, Equipment Rentals, and in-person workshops, as well as to our Artist Collective members. Take a virtual tour below and learn how to take advantage of our spacious and well-stocked studios!
About our Studios
Our studios are a haven for hobbyists and professional artists alike who practice bookbinding, letterpress printing, papermaking, paper marbling, screen printing, and related arts. At 12,000 square feet, MCBA is the largest space dedicated to book arts in the nation and maintains one of the most impressive collections of printing presses in the world (17 and counting!). Our studios contain the following:
- Bindery
- Letterpress Print Studio
- Type Library
- Papermaking & Paper Marbling Studio
- Screen Printing Studio (with exposure unit)
- 2 Classrooms (tables & chairs)
- Paper Prep & Cutting Equipment
- Darkroom
Providing studio access is central to MCBA’s mission. There are several ways our artist community can gain safe access to our space:
Studio Labs
Artists seeking occasional access to our studios can sign up for a scheduled Studio Lab in letterpress printing, papermaking, paper marbling, or screen printing. Adequate training is required to work independently.
Equipment Rental
Want to work with a particular piece of equipment for a finite period of time? Check out our list of specialized book arts equipment available for rent! For questions and to schedule a rental, fill out this form. Please allow 2–3 business days for a response.
Artist Collective Membership
Artist Collective members pay monthly dues to gain 24/7 independent studio and equipment access at MCBA. Additional perks include onsite storage, exhibition opportunities, workshop discounts, and participation in an eclectic community of fellow artists. Adequate training is required to work independently.
Need supplies? Forgot to bring yours? You can purchase many essential items in our Shop.
For training in a particular process, consider these programs:
In-person Workshops
One of the main ways the public gains access to our studios is through in-person workshops ranging from single sessions to in-depth explorations that span several weeks. Our teaching artists love sharing knowledge in their areas of expertise: bookbinding, letterpress printing, papermaking, paper marbling, screen printing, and related arts. See all of our workshop offerings, including virtual workshops, here.
One-to-One Tutorials
For those seeking more individualized instruction (or help with a particular project), consider scheduling a one-to-one tutorial. This is also a great way to seek training on a specific piece of equipment, which is required for Artist Collective membership and Studio Lab sign-ups.
If you are working in MCBA’s studios during this time, you agree to read and follow MCBA’s Covid Safety Guidelines. Thank you for keeping yourselves and our community safe and creative!