Full spectrum letterpress: a quick intro to advanced ink gradients, split fountains, & rainbow rolls

Gradient print inking looks amazing, and is actually pretty simple to do! These quick demos let you watch how to ink VBA’s Vandercook presses to produce rainbow & other gradient inking (aka “split fountains” or “rainbow rolls”) on type, and on type-high boards to create gradient-inked backgrounds. You’ll leave knowing enough to experiment & practice on your own time at VBA. 

Note: this is mostly a demo, not an intensive hands-on. You will not have a chance to ink the presses yourself nor set type yourself during this class, but you will have the opportunity to pull & keep 1-2 prints from each press (one for gradient type, one for gradient backgrounds) using the paper, ink, & type the instructor has already set up.

Suggested experience: To get the most from this demo, we recommend you have at least one past experience printing with a Vandercook, as understanding the basic of how to ink & use a press are necessary to follow along fully, and if you want to be able to come to VBA later to practice what you see demo’d without first taking an intro printing class. However, you’re also welcome to come without Vandercook experience! You’ll still get a chance to pull prints, but note we won’t have time to answer questions about Vandercook/letterpress basics.

Accessibility: Please contact VBA if you have questions/concerns about accessibility. While the instructor will project their voice as much as possible, note they will be masked for accessibility reasons. If you find hearing in spaces with multiple conversations difficult, you may prefer pursuing this learning through private mentorship.

Instructor: Amanda Visconti