Workshop Fee (includes materials fee): $400
Scholarship available; click here to apply.

This is an in-person workshop. As of January 2023, masks are strongly encouraged but not required unless otherwise indicated. 

The jobbing platen was developed to meet the demand for greater volumes of printing with shorter production times. 

Day 1 :: Postcard Express

Design, set up and run an edition of 50 postcards in this class that introduces the efficient mechanics of a Chandler & Price jobbing platen press.

Competencies Gained:

• Composing a tight line / line justification
• Making a mounted cut work with type
• Proper form creation (planing)
• Understanding mechanics of the jobbing platen
• Press / job setup
• Imposing on a stone
• Make-ready / packing
• Rails / trucks / roller height

 Day 2 :: Photopolymer on the Platen

The development of photopolymer opened up a new world of possibilities for letterpress. This class teaches you to integrate platen printing with polymer plates, allowing you to print whatever ephemera you can dream up!

Competencies Gained:

• Understanding mechanics of the jobbing platen
• Press / job setup
• Locking up a base in a chase
• Inking / troubleshooting polymer on a platen

>> Prerequisite: Cylinder Core 1-4. Students who register but have not satisfied the prerequisite will be de-enrolled. <<

Materials to Bring: None. All tools and materials will be provided.

Date & Time: Saturday & Sunday, August 19 & 20, 2023 :: 9:30am-5:30pm

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

NOTE: Please read over the SFCB Registration Policies before signing up for a class. Registration will close three days prior to the start date of the workshop to allow the instructor time to prep materials for class. 
 

About the Instructor | Alan Hillesheim (he/him)

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:

“Alan was an amazing instructor. His style elevated the skills we learned in the cylinder core. He not only instructed us but worked very hands on with us. I felt that I was working more as an apprentice than a student.”

“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!”