Introduction to Letterpress Basics

Introduction to Letterpress Basics

August 22nd and 23rd 

10:30-3:00 with lunch break

cost: $165

Instructor: Eric Groff

In-Studio Class 

This two-part lesson will guide students in the time-honored tradition of letterpress. Students will learn the proper terminology of the letterpress shop, become familiar with the tools of the trade, and effectively hand-set a small composition to print on our 50s-era proofing presses. Instructors and students will participate in group critiques as the class proceeds. At the conclusion of the second session, students will have the background knowledge to continue with their letterpress studies in more advanced classes at FBAC. 

SESSION 1 will be a structured lesson in composing a form using large wood type, locking the form within a chase, using brayers to ink by hand, and operating the proofing press.

SESSION 2 students will create their own composition using wood or metal type and print a small edition of 10 prints to share with classmates and instructors.

Completing this class will certify students in using our letterpress department for typesetting and printing with proofing presses during Open Studio Rentals.

About the instructor

Eric Groff

Eric Groff is a Maryland based artist whose work explores storytelling conveyed in single images and sequential art. Eric graduated from Frostburg State University with a BFA focusing in Printmaking and Illustration and a minor in Art History. Discovering Frederick Book Arts Center in 2021, Eric has since translated his linocuts to wood and textiles, and explored monoprinting, letterpress, and bookbinding.

NOTE: 

We set our pricing to pay our instructors a fair wage and cover materials, but one of FBAC’s goals is to give access to the experience of all things bookbinding and printing to anyone who is interested. If you or someone you know would like to participate in a class but do not have the funding please reach out to contact@frederickbookarts.org and we will do what we can so no one has to miss out on the experiences we offer.