Introduction to Letterpress Printing - The 14th-Century Way - 15th March

Experience the timeless art of letterpress printing in this hands-on workshop. Set type ink the press

and create your own handcrafted prints to take home.

Step back in time and embrace the charm of traditional printing. This experience is a unique

opportunity to work with antique metal types learn the old-fashioned method of arranging text and

operate a classic letterpress machine. A tactile and relaxing experience perfect for creative minds

seeking inspiration and connection with the roots of graphic design.

• Date: March 15th

• Time: 11:00 AM to 2:00 PM

• Venue: Socials Koramangala

• Price: ₹2500 per guest (Includes Rs 400 voucher redeemable at Social)

• Free letterpress goodies worth Rs 500

• Materials: 250 GSM paper metal types ink and all necessary tools provided

• Skill Level: Beginner-friendly – no prior experience needed

Ideal for:

This experience is perfect for:

• Graphic Designers: A tactile break from digital tools to explore the roots of design.

• Design Students: Gain hands-on experience with typography, layout, and printing

techniques.

• Creatives and Enthusiasts: Anyone who loves trying new, relaxing crafts and appreciates

handmade work.

• Anyone Curious: No experience is needed—just bring your curiosity and love for learning!

FAQs

1. Do I need any prior knowledge or technical experience to participate?

No prior knowledge or technical experience is required. This experience is tailored for beginners

while being enriching for design professionals. It’s structured to guide you step by step through the

fundamentals of letterpress printing, from understanding the historical context to the tactile process

of hand-setting type.

2. What exactly will I learn in this experience?

Guests will gain a well-rounded understanding of the following:

• History and Evolution: A deep dive into the origins of letterpress printing and its role in

shaping modern graphic design.

• Typography Basics: Introduction to metal types, their anatomy (ascenders, descenders,

kerning, etc.), and their role in typesetting.

• Typesetting by Hand: Arranging pre-composed, jumbled content into cohesive layouts

manually, understanding spacing, alignment, and composition principles.

• Printing Mechanics: The process of inking the press, loading paper, and operating an

antique letterpress machine.

• Design Principles: Applying fundamental concepts of typography, balance, and layout in a

hands-on setting.

3. Will I have the opportunity to create my own print?

Yes, absolutely! The session focuses on the process of creation. You will arrange a pre-designed

composition (to focus on techniques rather than ideation in a beginner-level class), and each print

will be unique as you manually handle the setup. You’ll leave with a high-quality handcrafted print

made by you.

4. What materials will be provided?

We provide all the tools and materials necessary for the experience. These include:

• Metal and Wood Types: A range of pre-selected fonts and sizes for composing text.

• Inking Tools: High-quality ink and brayers for smooth application.

• Printing Paper: 250 GSM premium-quality paper to ensure a durable and elegant final

output.

• Rough Sheets: For trial runs and experimenting before the final print.

• Antique Press Machine: Fully operational for authentic, hands-on learning.

5. Will I be able to take home what I create?

Yes! You’ll take home your handcrafted letterpress prints as a keepsake. However, all tools,

materials, and equipment used during the experience will remain in the studio for future sessions.

6. How does this experience differ from modern printing techniques?

This experience offers a stark contrast to modern digital printing by immersing guests in the tactile,

deliberate, and hands-on art of letterpress. Unlike digital tools where precision is automated,

letterpress requires:

• Manual Precision: Typesetting by hand and understanding the physicality of design.

• Ink Application: Learning to apply ink uniformly for consistent print quality.

• Mechanical Interaction: Operating a physical press that provides insight into the

mechanics behind traditional printing.

By focusing on these techniques, guests will develop a richer appreciation of the craft and its

influence on contemporary design.

7. Who would benefit most from this experience?

This experience is ideal for:

• Graphic Designers and Design Professionals: Learn the origins of design principles and

gain a new perspective on typography and layout.

• Students of Design and Fine Arts: A perfect hands-on complement to theoretical studies,

especially for understanding typography and printmaking.

• Typographers and Type Enthusiasts: Deepen your appreciation for the craft and engage

with type in a physical medium.

• Creative Hobbyists: Anyone looking for a tactile and immersive creative experience, away

from digital tools.

8. How will the final printing process work?

Once the type is set and the layout is finalized, guests will proceed to print in small batches. The

process includes:

1. Applying ink evenly onto the press rollers.

2. Aligning the arranged type on the press bed with precision.

3. Loading paper onto the press for the first print run.

4. Printing in groups to ensure individual attention during the final output.

5. Inspecting the final print and adjusting if necessary for consistency.

This meticulous process ensures guests understand the interaction between type, ink, and paper.

9. Is there a limit on how much I can print?

Each guest will create one unique composition and print it on a limited number of high-quality

sheets (typically four A4 sheets). This ensures a balance between learning and hands-on time for

everyone in the group.

10. What safety measures are in place for using the equipment?

Safety is a priority, especially when working with antique equipment. The host will:

• Provide a detailed demonstration of the press operation.

• Supervise the inking and printing process to ensure proper handling.

• Offer aprons and gloves to minimize ink contact and ensure cleanliness.

Guests will be guided closely to avoid any risk of misuse or injury.

11. What happens if I make a mistake while arranging or printing?

Mistakes are part of the learning process! The experience includes rough trial sheets for testing

layouts before proceeding to the final print. The host will assist in troubleshooting issues like

misaligned type, uneven inking, or over/under pressure during printing.

12. What is the maximum number of guests, and why is it limited?

We cap the experience at 12 guests to ensure:

• Individual attention from the host.

• Ample time for each participant to work on the press.

• A relaxed and enjoyable learning environment.

Host or Publisher akila k