Letterpress printing is a means of printing texts through the use of raised metal type. This was the primary means of mass-producing communications materials for over five centuries. Because this is a very old practice that is not used very much today, it may be difficult for letterpress enthusiasts to find training resources. Fortunately, there is a wide range of training resources available if you know where to look.
Online Training
There is a variety of websites available offering information on letterpresses, letterpressing techniques and common problems and solutions related to letterpressing. The Briar Press website offers a forum where users can discuss topics in the categories of "letterpress for beginners," "troubleshooting the press" and "press and typeface identification," among other topics. PPLetterpress is another website that offers a forum for discussing studio letterpress and various letterpressing and typographic techniques.
Classes and Degrees
There are colleges and universities that offer classes and various degrees in letterpressing and letterpress-related subjects. For example, the University of Alabama offers classes in letterpressing and even offers a graduate degree in the field. Its facilities include a well-stocked shop that may be used by its students. The State University of New York at Purchase offers a similar program, including a graduate degree.
Manuals
For those who would prefer do-it-yourself training methods, there are many print training manuals available for purchase. For example, "General Printing" by Glen U. Cleeton and Charles W. Pitkin provides an extensive introduction to the subject with a complete instruction manual. It contains detailed photographs and illustrations. "The Practice of Printing" by Ralph W. Polk is another letterpress training manual directed at an upper-level high school audience. As of June 2011, this book is out of print, but there are still many copies available for purchase in bookstores and online.
Equipment
Once you have collected all of your training resources, it is important to learn about the types of presses available. Five Roses Press offers information on several different kinds of letterpresses and letterpress equipment. These include the handpress, which is a traditional freestanding, hand-operated platen press. These are directly descended from Gutenberg's original printing press, which he invented in 1451. Another example is the High-End Lever Press/Tabletop Platen, which is used by letterpress enthusiasts and hobbyists. This press was first manufactured in the late 19th century and was steadily manufactured throughout the 1970s.
Tags: training resources, available purchase, graduate degree, letterpress enthusiasts, offers forum