Tuesday, March 05, 2013

Learning how to Print Letterpress

Featured are the Showcard Proofing Press, 8x10 Kelsey, and the Vandercook 219.

In this video I demonstrate three great presses housed at the Minneapolis College of Art and Design. I show from start to finish how to ink up, operate, and clean each press as well as how to use the guillotine cutter, how to oil the Vandercook, and how to change the packing.

There is also a great little trick at 19 minutes that shows my favorite technique for perfectly lining up photopolymer every time!

Sorry if my voiceover is a little stilted or if in a few cases I use a wonky term. (I call the ink drum a roller at one point).

This video is not meant to replace proper instruction on any of these machines! If you want to learn letterpress sign up for some classes or find yourself a mentor. I was mentored for about three years before making this video. Having proper safety instruction is key because it protects you and these venerable machines. Tie up your hair, wear gloves/aprons, have adequate ventilation, and be careful of moving parts!

Enjoy! Long live letterpress!

Special thanks to Diana Eicher and the MCAD Printshop

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