Get to know the basics of one of the greatest printing machines in history: join us to learn the fundamentals of the Vandercook SP-15 proofing press!
In this jam-packed session, N. Adam Beadel, Proprietor of Team Nerd Letterpress, will demonstrate the basic mechanisms of our Vandercook and how to get set up to properly pull a print. After a full review of the press, students will print the 2nd layer of a two color poster already pre-set in wood type, lead type, Ludlow slugs, and a linocut(!) This unique showcase poster features a primer on “How to Make Papyrus,” marking the first in a series on “Materials in Books Arts History” using information from our in-house library.
This is an introductory class with no previous skills required. This course is one of several upcoming that fulfill prerequisite requirements for intermediate level classes. Students will be shown:
- Basic tools and terminology to orient them to our shop and process.
- How to check and set the press’ ink roller height.
- How to check and set the tympan paper.
- How to use wood and metal furniture along with quoins to lock up a pre-made form on the press bed.
- How to properly ink up the press with rubber-based ink.
- How to set up proper paper feeding for correct registration.
- Proper carriage use and process to pull a print correctly.
Each student will have a hands-on chance to print a copy of the limited edition poster to take home, plus obtain the class credits needed to take advanced courses required for our upcoming community makerspace launch.
**Masks are required at this event. Thank you for helping us keep each other safe!