Join us for a two day crash-course in letterpress printing!

There are no available registration dates at this time.

Artwork by Richard Reitz Smith

Letterpress printing is a centuries old technique, in which images and text can be re-produced by the repeated direct impression of an inked, raised surface against paper. In this busy, 2-day workshop, students will learn how to set type, operate the press, and how to create a one and two color print. Mini-lectures on the history of the printing press, the basics of graphic design, and art historical context will be sprinkled in throughout this skill-based course.

2-Day Letterpress Basics is perfect for absolute beginners who have never touched type or those looking for a refresher. Students will use the two Vandercook Universal presses, one automated and one mechanical, in the Maine Media Book Arts Studio to create one color and two color hand-set prints.

Lunch each day is included. Lodging is available on campus $75/night, private room & bath.

This class is limited to 8 students.

Image Credit:  Devin Altobello

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Instructor: Richard Reitz Smith

Richard Reitz Smith is the Book Arts Program Chair and Studio Manager at Maine Media. He is an artist trained as a graphic designer and excels in marrying traditional techniques with modern technology in the pursuit of all forms of book arts and letterpress printing.

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