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 Core Certification Program and find out how you receive a discount.

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

Materials to Bring: None

Prerequisite: None :: (Optional: Intro to Letterpress)

Workshop Fee: $200

Date & Time: Saturday, May 30, 2015 :: 9:30am-5:30pm

Location: This workshop will take place at 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.

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 and, most recently, fanciful wooden toys for a four year old. He is still writing the novel he started 25 years ago, Different Eyes.

Student Reviews

"Wonderful that he is extremely knowledgeable and is current in printing."

“Very much appreciated the one-on-one attention and support and encouragement, including answering off-topic questions.”

“Total wealth of knowledge! Alan is awesome and has a great sense of humor.“

Customize Your Certificate Program :: Choose the Date of Your Next Class

Cylinder Core 2: Power of the Broadside