Heidelberg Windmill Press Operation - Sat, Mar 21, 2026

The “Heidelberg Windmill” is the beloved nickname for the original Heidelberg Platen Press—a remarkably precise and powerful workhorse of letterpress printing. Known for its reliability and iconic rotating paper gripper (resembling a windmill), this press has long been admired for consistently producing beautiful results. Yet many printers remain intimidated or hesitant to take the leap into owning or operating one. This workshop is designed to change that.

In this 6-hour hands-on workshop, you’ll learn directly from seasoned printers Shino and Ken, owners of Fugu Fugu Press. They will guide you through the key elements of working with a Windmill, including proper safety, make-ready, automatic feed, impression, inking, registration, troubleshooting common issues, and basic maintenance. There will be plenty of time to ask questions and address your own printing challenges.

By the end of the day, you will be confident with the basics of operating a Windmill -- and you'll have printed a set of 30 two-color thank you notecards (that will come with envelopes) to take home.

Note: design may vary from sample images.

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Host or Publisher The International Printing Museum