This two-session intensive class introduces students to printing in relief with digital-originated text and line art. (Halftone dot printing will not be covered here.)
Prerequisites: Letterpress 1
Access to professional page layout software (Adobe Illustrator/InDesign, Affinity Designer/Publisher, QuarkXPress) for high-resolution pdf file output. Canva doesn’t seem to produce high enough resolution, but could be used, if only for proof of workflow. Do not use any Microsoft software.
You will get plates made at your own expense and bring them to the second session for printing. There are several plate-making companies in the US. All other supplies will be provided.
Dress to get inky at the second session!
Session 1 is for the technical details of how to design for letterpress and how to prepare files for making the photopolymer plates. If you have proper software on a laptop, bring it.
Much of what you need to know about file-prep is here: https://www.boxcarpress.com/file-preparation/
The intervening two weeks are meant for you to design a one-color text piece (add simple line art if you wish); and have a polymer plate made. Expect that to take up to 5 business days, make sure the platemaker knows by when you need it. Be sure you have it in hand when you come for session two.
Session 2 is for printing your design. We’ll see how well you followed directions and whether the reality matched your expectations. We’ll discuss the results for quality, appropriateness, font choice, what could be improved, what not to do in future.
You’ll leave with a few copies of your print, and a marked up copy with critiques.
Class meets for TWO SESSIONS with a 20 minute break during each for lunch.
Instructor: Brian Allen
After a 40-year career working with letterforms and typography, 20 as a digital font engineer, 10 with a solo commercial letterpress print shop in Raleigh/Durham, NC, Brian has retired to Philadelphia to luxuriate in the arts, crafts, and culture here. He particularly enjoys the warmth and hospitality of the citizens. It affords ample opportunity to activate his sardonic sense of humor.