If you have heard about letterpress but are not really sure what it is or how it works, this class will allow you to peer inside the rich history and engaging techniques of letterpress printing.
This class introduces the process, the materials, the machines, and the satisfaction of printing by hand on a Cylinder proof press. Participants will learn the basics of setting type using SFCB’s vast collection of lead type and decorative ornaments as well as inking, locking up and pulling a print.
Materials to Bring
All tools and materials will be provided.
About the Instructor
Madison Halaby Gordon (she/her) is a bookbinder and conservator-in-training living in Oakland, CA, currently working at Zukor Art Conservation and the Walt Disney Family Museum. She is fascinated by paper, and loves making and repairing practical, fun, accessible, and well-made structures for the use and enjoyment of everyday people. Madison is also trained in letterpress printing and has worked previously with the Key Printing & Binding (Oakland, CA) and Small Editions (Brooklyn, NY).
Past Student Reviews
“Madison made the introduction experience to letterpress and the SFCB facility an accessible and enjoyable experience.”
“She was perfect. Madison was engaging and knowledgeable. She covered the material and also put it in a greater context."
“It was fantastic! We dove right in, had the right amount of instruction to feel confident creating something. Instructors were incredibly helpful without micromanaging or doing much for us. It was exactly what I was hoping it would be!"
Location
San Francisco Center for the Book
375 Rhode Island Street, San Francisco, CA 94103
Registration Policies
Please read over the SFCB Registration Policies before signing up for a class. Registration will close approximately three days prior to the start date of the workshop to allow the instructor time to prep materials for class. We recommend you not wait to register, as workshops that don't meet our minimum enrollment will be canceled, sometimes as much as a week in advance.
Workshop fee
(includes materials fee):
$85
Prerequisite(s):
None
Class sessions:
Thursday, April 17, 2025
6-9 pm
If this workshop is full, please click this link to add your name to the waitlist. If a seat becomes available, we will contact you.