This is an in-person workshop. All students and the instructor are required to be vaccinated and agree to wear a mask for the duration of the class unless otherwise announced by SFCB. 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!

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.

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 at the discounted rate.*

Date & Time: Saturday May 14, 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.

About the Instructor | Alan Hillesheim

Alan Hillesheim has been wrenching around printing presses for 35 years. Printing presses need to be moved, oiled, inked, cleaned, and maintained; in short they need attention like a six year old. Maintenance is a dirty business, but a necessary one for beautifully printed anything. Alan has a passion for the mechanics of the print studio and enjoys encouraging others to roll up their sleeves and grab a wrench. His 35 years in the letterpress business and “all-ten-fingers” count speak for themselves. Join him and wear old clothes.
Oh, and once the press is in fine order, Alan has a few secrets to divulge about perfect inking and stellar printing.

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!”