Introduction to Letterpress

Discover the craft of letterpress printing

Learn to prepare work and print on the hand-operated presses in the historic setting of Bodleian’s letterpress workshop in the Bodleian Old Library.

In this course, instructors will introduce you to the basics of designing a letterpress print in various formats from posters to business cards, setting metal and wooden type.

Participants will have an introduction to the Bodleian's letterpress workshop and the range of hand-operated presses, including the 'Duerer Press', a replica of a wooden 15th-century press, Albion and Columbian platen presses, a ‘Western’ (Vandercook-style) proofing press, and a star-wheel etching press.

Participants will learn:

about relief and intaglio processes
how to hand-typeset lead and wooden type
how to set up work into a forme
how to select paper stock
how to choose and mix inks
the correct and safe use of the press.

By the end of the session you will leave with your own handprinted objects, designed collectively in the class.

Learn more about printing and book arts activities at the Bodleian Libraries Bibliographical Press

Age 18 and over. All materials are provided. No previous experience necessary.

Tutor

Alexandra Franklin is a librarian with her own long-term printing project, a tutor for historically-based printing exercises at the Bodleian Bibliographical Press and a member of the Oxford Guild of Printers.

Alice Hackney, an Oxford-based artist and printer, will support the course.
Instagram: @alice_hackney_art

Location

Schola Musicae, Bodleian Old Library, Broad Street, Oxford, OX1 3BG

The class will meet in the printing workshop, Schola Musicae, Bodleian Library. The room is accessible via a ground-floor entrance. Please report to the Bodleian Library Great Gate, accessed from Catte Street, upon arrival.