Welcome to Book Arts

Introduction to Bookbinding & Letterpress Materials, Tools & Techniques

This free, hands-on class provides an introduction to letterpress basics and bookbinding. Participants will learn about locking up a form on the press bed, inking the press and “pressure” considerations in order to then pull several prints. Other aspects of letterpress printing will be reviewed, such as metal and wood type, how type drawers are organized, and setting type and spacing material in a composition stick. The bookbinding portion of the class covers paper grain, folding, scoring, and how to use a bone folder, utility knife and awl. Participants will bring home a simple pamphlet-stitched booklet of their making as well as several single-sheet zine models. All tools and materials will be provided.

VBA is committed to the accessibility of this historic resource and offers this workshop for free. However, registration is required. Registration is a commitment to attend the class so that the instructor can prepare the necessary materials. We will send out a reminder before the class date. Please note that we often have a waiting list for this class so it is important to let us know if you need to cancel!

Instructor: Lyall Harris

Free, registration required.