This is an in-person workshop. All students and the instructor are required to be vaccinated (honor system) and agree to wear a mask for the duration of the class. If you choose to complete the registration process you are agreeing to these terms.

 

Cylinder Core Certificate Program

The handfed cylinder proof press, also known as the Vandercook press, has a special place in both print history and in teaching book arts. Immediate and accessible, yet nuanced and specific, it is the press that introduced many of us to letterpress. The four class Cylinder Core Certificate Program allows students to move quickly through the press basics while also addressing relief printing in general. Students who finish the four core classes are qualified to rent press time as well as move on to more advanced classes and techniques.

Click here to learn more about the Cylinder Core Certificate Program and how to receive a discount!

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Cylinder Core 1 :: Experience Letterpress!

Dig in to the tradition and history of letterpress printing and get your hands dirty. Learn about the process and practice of setting type, mixing inks and pulling impressions. In this class you will learn how to print your own cards!

Competencies Gained:

• Knowledge:

  • Introductory history of the art and craft of relief printing

  • How letterpress printing works

• Skills:

  • Introduction to the type case, composition and the composing stick

  • Introduction to studio practices

  • Pulling a print

• Equipment:

  • Introduction to the cylinder (Vandercook) press and safety points

  • Movable type and cuts

All paper for SFCB's Core Certificate Program projects has been generously provided by Mohawk.

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Materials to Bring: None

Prerequisite: None; optional: Introduction to Letterpress

Workshop + Materials Fee: $200.00
Scholarships available; click here to apply

*Students registering for the full Core series will receive a $100 discount off the total cost. Please call or email to enroll.

Date & Time: Sunday, January 23, 2022 :: 9:30am-5:30pm

Location: 375 Rhode Island St, San Francisco, CA 94103

Note: Please read the SFCB Registration Policies before signing up for a class

REGISTRATION WILL CLOSE 3 DAYS PRIOR TO THE START DATE OF THIS WORKSHOP.

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About the Instructor | Alan Hillesheim

Alan Hillesheim has degrees in English Literature from UC Berkeley and the University of Chicago. Thus, lost in the woods without a compass, he apprenticed at Jim Robertson's Yolla Bolly Press, over his head in the black art. There he happened upon a dysfunctional paper-folding-machine which resembled a Norwegian snow sled wrecked by six drunks. He fixed it. And then began a 23 year adventure both printing and fixing machines from the golden age of letterpress. In addition to running Digger Pine Press into the ground, he also builds wooden boats for oar and sail.

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Past Student Reviews:

“Loved it - Learned about presses, how to typeset, ink, print - and got 15 Thank You cards for all the hard work.  Alan was really patient and gave each of us individual help.  Excellent teacher.”

“Alan is a terrific teacher. He is organized, experienced, personable and kind. He has high expectations but gives you the knowledge and encouragement to meet those expectations.”

“Alan is an amazing instructor. His personal and professional interest in the whole world of printing enlivened the lessons. He covered everything!”