I get emails on a regular basis from people looking to get hands-on tuition in letterpress techniques. As far as I know this remains a very limited field. Course providers are listed below, many are professional letterpress printers as well. None of the people below have paid to be listed. If you’d like to add to this list, please contact me.
InkSpotPress, Brighton
Having undergone a complete refurbishment, Ink Spot Press has expanded its Letterpress facility to include another proofing press (a Vandercook circa 1940) and 180 cases of type, some of which is Victorian and so old it even pre-dates point sizes.
Visit InkSpotPress.co.uk or call 01273 643069 for information on the upcoming letterpress courses, including, Summer School (23 –27 August), Taster Day (18 September) and autumn Letterpress sessions (Wed evenings 6th Oct.-8th Dec.) or (Tues evenings 12th Oct-14th Dec.)
The above classes are taught either by John Packer or Les Ellis both of whom come from backgrounds as letterpress apprentices and have many years experience teaching at University Level.
New North Press, London
New North Press in Hoxton, London is running a three-day intensive workshop in letterpress printing for artists’ books & posters.
Course starts 19th July — 21th July 2010
Situated in Hoxton, the press is part of Standpoint Studios. During the course of the week you will get a tour of Standpoint as well as enjoying a thriving and lively area with many galleries, cafes and restaurants.
This course is open to anyone with an interest in letterpress printing. I hope this will be an exciting three days with each day starting a 10am and finishing at 6pm. We will take an hour off for lunch. Tea, coffee & biscuits provided.
Maximum number of participants 9, minimum 6, costs for the three– day workshop £190 per person, inclusive of materials.
For details about Graham Bignell & New North Press visit www.new-north-press.co.uk. Or email graham.bignell@talk21.com for bookings.
St. Martin's, London
Helen Ingham is running short letterpress courses
London College of Communications
The London College of Communications runs a Letterpress Skills Course at their Elephant and Castle Campus. Call Switchboard on + 44 (0)20 7514 6500 for more details.
Incline Press
Graham Moss and Kathy Whalen at the Incline Press in Oldham, Lancashire, offers personalised one-to-one tuition. Call 0161 627 1966 to speak to Graham or Kathy.
Richard Lawrence, Bath
Letterpress printing tuition and classes available in Bath from printer with 30+ years experience. Please contact Richard Lawrence to discuss your interests. Telephone 01225 313494 Email ZRLawrence@aol.com
Brignell Bookbinders
Barry Brignell runs bookbinding tuition in Cambridge, visit their website for more information.