Want to make your own valentines or a personalized gift for your special someone? Come learn the basics of letterpress printing with wood type at Hamilton Wood Type & Printing Museum.

In this workshop you will become familiarized with type composition, locking up, and printing on sign presses. The workshop runs from 9 am until 5 pm. The day starts off with instruction on printing and using a sign press. The majority of the workshop consists of printing with wood type from a large collection available in the pressroom at the museum. While we will have blocks that are perfect for printing valentines you can design and print whatever theme you like, it does not have to be holiday oriented. Clean-up begins at 4 pm and the day finishes up at 5 pm. Please wear comfortable shoes and clothes that may get ink on them.

The cost is $125 per person, with the museum providing ink and 25 sheets of 100 lb white cover stock at 12 x 18 inches. 25 sheets of paper is a wonderful number to allow each participant to further their knowledge in letterpress printing and to explore the art form. The workshops are not meant for producing resale work. Feel free to bring paper of a different size, stock or color. However, please keep in mind that handmade paper is not allowed as it may damage the type.

No previous experience is necessary. Space is limited, so reservations and a $65 non-refundable deposit when you sign up are required. The $60 to fulfill the full cost of the workshop is due at the beginning of the workshop. We accept cash, credit card or check. A maximum of 12 students per class ensures that everyone has access to their own press.

Because of the nature of the pressroom and the pieces being used, participants in the workshop must be 18 years or older. Please complete the registration form below to reserve your place in the workshop. If you have any questions, e-mail us at info@woodtype.org or call 920.794.6272.