Learn about Letterpress

Planned Upcoming Workshops for 2025

Saturday February 22, beginners letterpress workshop, small format, but also opportunity for poster art prints

Saturday March 22, Adana special. Looking at operation of and getting the most out of your Adana, plus maintenance tips

(also for those who may not have an Adana, but want to start their letterpress journey and might consider this nice little hobby press)

Saturday May 10, letterpress workshop for all with an emphasis on mothers day

Saturday July 5, letterpress workshop for all with an emphasis on Matariki printing

Saturday September 6, large poster printing with wood type, for beginners and advanced

Saturday November 22, letterpress workshop for all, with an emphasis on Christmas stationery

Please note. Workshops are dependant on a minimum of 4 participants. 10.30 - 3.30, cost $140 pp. You can make up a team and ask for a workshop outside of these dates

I am also involved with public participation activities at Printopia on Sat/Sun May 3 - 4, and BIND25 Fri/Sun September 12/14.

Letterpress Workshops

Our adult and childrens letterpress workshops are popular.

We run adult all day Saturday workshops at the Birkenhead Library, one class every 1 - 2 months, depending on interest and bookings. Space and equipment dictate classes are limited to three or four people. Children’s workshops of 2-3 hours are usually organised by the Birkenhead Library during school holidays.

Although letterpress is a skilled craft, our workshops make it easy for newcomers to get a taste by using simple machines that enable a relatively quick and satisfying result.

Sessions begin with hand setting and locking up a form of type, before we run through the basics of how a press is inked and operated. You will then be free to design a small card or two of your choosing using the metal type that we will have available. In the afternoon you will set a poster size art print of your design, using the larger wood type.

Most importantly, you will learn the joy of seeing your creation come to life.

Cost $130.00 per person, payment in advance. Workshops only proceed with at least three people booked.

Gather some friends together and have your own personal workshop!

The Mobile Print Shop

I’m excited to present the Mobile Print Shop to New Zealand, a dream I have had for a few years.

In the purpose built trailer I can bring the 1833 Albion press, wood type, paper, ink, all the equipment required to run a workshop or special event to your chosen venue. I can offer workshops in the following situations -

the history of print in primary schools, and practical letterpress sessions for college art groups
programmes in Libraries for children and school groups
business team building letterpress workshops
special events working with design groups, exhibitions, galleries, etc.

My aim is to make every outing a learning, fun, hands-on experience.

Note. Some advance planning will be required to check the practicalities of setting up the press in your location. There will be charges to cover materials, travel, and other costs, to be confirmed at the time of booking.

Contact me to talk about the possibilities of the Mobile Print Shop adding to your special occasion.