Apprenticeship Program

We take in apprentices who are seeking experience in letterpress, design, printmaking, and art business development.

Activities are somewhat varied based on the incoming apprentice's skills and interests, as well as the studio's current needs and open projects. However, generally it begins with ink mixing, maintenance, basic binding & assembly, and building quality control skills. As the student is ready, the focus shifts to platemaking, cutting & trimming, and design file preparation. Students also learn to create project designs, set up and print on the Vandercook, and if adept and interested, set up and print on the Heidelberg Windmill.

The apprentice may join one of our weekend workshops per semester free of charge, and may use the equipment and guidance of the staff to advance personal projects throughout the year.

The program is based on work in exchange for education, and requires a weekday time committment of 8 hours per week (one full day or two half days), in addition to attendance at a weekly staff meeting. Apprentices are selected through an interview process, and must make a one year committment to the studio.

Our ideal candidate is a reliable, focused self-starter who understands instruction quickly and works efficiently and with precision to move projects forward. Must have keen attention to detail and a love of fine arts as well as printing. Ability to work reliably under deadlines is required. Previous letterpress and book arts experience is not necessary, though some familiarity with the medium and its demands is highly recommended.

If you are interested in learning more about the apprenticeship program, please contact Kim Vanderheiden at info@paintedtonguepress.com