Thursday, 7/17, at the J. Willard Marriott Library, University of Utah
2-5pm:
Pressed for Time: A Brief History of Printing with Lyuba Basin
Thursday, July 17 | 2:00-5:00pm (drop-in session)
Level 4, Rare Books Classroom
Curious about how printing shaped the world? Drop by this engaging, informal rare book session to explore the fascinating history of printing, from Gutenberg’s movable type to the modern resurgence of letterpress. This session offers a hands-on look at key innovations, the evolution of print technology, and the artisans who have left their mark on the field.
Whether you have five minutes or fifty, stop by the Rare Books Classroom to discover how printing revolutionized communication, fueled social change, and continues to inspire today’s designers and bookmakers. Bring your curiosity and an appreciation for the power of the printed word!
4:30-7pm:
Riso drop-in with Sara Luz Jensen and Book Arts faculty & staff: Gain familiarity with the Book Arts Program studio space and create low-stakes imagery in collaboration with other conference registrants. Grab a partner or work solo to use collage materials and simple mark-making to create an image that can be duplicated on the Risograph printer or select from various matrices (zinc cut, wood type, etc.) to produce a quick letterpress print. Working spontaneously, printers respond to constraints of materials and time to produce prints that can be passed on to other participants to add a layer. The print is finished when the time is up! Each roulette participant walks away from the conference with a wire-bound collection of collaborative prints.
Friday, 7/18, the J. Willard Marriott Library, University of Utah
2-5pm:
Papermaking for Printers with Emily Tipps: As many printers know, handmade paper can lend texture, character, and even concept to letterpress projects. Participants in this workshop learn about handmade paper’s distinctive qualities through engagement in the process—beating pulp, pulling and pressing sheets, and drying them down. Conversation touches on tools, materials, studio needs, and special considerations for letterpress printing. Come have fun splashing in the vat and head home with a few fresh sheets!
8-10am:
Treat your Edges Right with Amy Thompson: Interested in applying color to the edges of paper projects? Edge treatment may be a closely guarded secret in the letterpress community but isn’t as tricky as it looks. This session provides the foundational skills to add some flair to business cards, prints, or text blocks. After a demonstration of the technique participants may take the airbrush for a spin.
Saturday, 7/19, the J. Willard Marriott Library, University of Utah
Sunday, 7/20, the J. Willard Marriott Library, University of Utah
11am-5:45pm:
Vandercook Repair and Maintenance with Paul Moxon: Participants will learn the maintenance, cleaning, and lubrication points to be prepared for future problems and make or direct repairs. We will also discuss all models of interest and other brands as warranted. Whether you use studio presses, own a press, or are thinking of buying one, this workshop will provide excellent direction for your future presswork. Bring your questions, photos, and broken parts. This workshop requires a $75 additional fee!