Introduction to Letterpress on the Vandercook
May 17 @ 10:30 am - 4:30 pm
$167.00An In-Studio Workshop!
Saturday, May 17, 10:30am-4:30pm
View our current in-studio Health and Safety and Cancellation Policies >>
About this Workshop:
Get started with letterpress! This workshop will cover the basics of letterpress printing with antique lead type on a Vandercook flatbed cylinder press. You will learn how to set type, operate a Vandercook press, and clean the press; set a few lines of text of your own choosing; and print a small edition (10-15 prints).
Level: Beginner – no experience necessary
Registration closes May 9, 2025. Material fees are included with your registration to cover the supplies provided in class. Students may want to gather/purchase additional materials for class (see the materials list below). This list will also be provided with the registration confirmation email.
Featured photo by Pyramid Atlantic, other photos courtesy of Theresa Esterlund.
CLASS MATERIALS LIST:
Registration includes a $10 materials fee to cover consumable materials. Student may also wish to bring the following items for class:
- (optional) Personal apron (we’ll have extras) and/or wear clothes that can get inky
- (optional) Pen and paper for taking notes
- (recommended) Comfortable, closed-toed shoes (you’ll be on your feet for most of the day)
- A few ideas for what you’d like to print – think very simple phrase, saying, etc.
Note: For your safety we also recommend short sleeves only and that long hair be tied back.
YOUR INSTRUCTOR:
Jim Modrick has been active in the letterpress studio for over four years and is an ArtGym member at Pyramid Atlantic. He can also be found in the screenprinting studio as he continues reconnecting with ink on paper. Jim also engages his creative side through drawing and, most recently, in oil painting. As an arts administrator, Jim built a career that combined organizational management with a passion for learning. He explored the role of the arts in education focusing on creativity, leadership, and accessibility. These days he works as a Grants Management Specialist with the National Park Service and, for the past 20 years, Jim has called the Aspen Hill area of Montgomery County home. Follow Jim’s work on Instagram @jemodrick.
“Really fun, informative, and well-paced. Felt like I learned a lot, enjoyably. Really a perfect experience.”
—Previous Workshop Participant