Workshop Details:

Level:

Beginners

Duration:

5 hours (10am to 3pm)

Location:

Blueway Art Studio


BOOK NOW
BUY A GIFT VOUCHER

Press for Change: Beginner Letterpress Workshop

Step back in time and discover the revolutionary power of print. Inspired by the trailblazing suffragettes and abolitionists—like Mary Leadbeater—who used pamphlets to change the world. This hands-on beginner workshop invites you to turn meaningful words into tangible art.

We begin with brief introduction to the history & heritage of our press “Adana”.

Set vintage metal type upside down and backwards on a mobile press to design your own limited-edition postcards and mini-prints. Whether you’re setting a favourite poem, sharing a heartfelt note to a loved one, or incorporating your own sketches and photos, you’ll leave with distinctive, handmade keepsakes ready to frame or post.

Workshop highlights:

  • Master the basics of traditional letterpress, from setting vintage type to pulling prints.
  • Discover how to blend letterpress with other mixed-media techniques through demonstrations and examples by Angelina.
  • Draw creative inspiration from historic women who made their voices heard through ink and paper.
  • Craft a bespoke collection of cards or mini-prints to send or treasure.
  • Create special mementos to send to loved ones here in Ireland or abroad.

Perfect for adults, teens, celebrations, hen parties, or anyone eager to explore a classic craft.

FAQs

What’s included in the price?

Spaces on our workshops are limited so that our makers can offer you the hands-on help and support you need to make the most of your time with us. Just bring yourself! All materials are included within reason: 2 sheets of large Japanese Bamboo Paper cut to whatever you wish to print, use of Adana letterpress, use of variety of type, rubber-based inks. Tea and coffee are also included.

This workshop is also available to book for private group get-togethers; themed celebrations; for corporate team building and well-being purposes; and can be combined with other processes such as bookbinding, etching or screenprinting and can be brought to a location of your choice.

You may either bring your own lunch or opt for the local community café – known as the Old Hardware. It’s a great place to find hand-made scones or cakes, and Mel’s Gastro Pub across the road from the Blueway Art Studio, serves food from 2pm at the weekends and from 5pm during the week. There are lots of options for things to do, places to stay, eat and drink in nearby Athy too.

What should I wear?

It’s a good idea to wear comfortable clothes and shoes that you won’t mind getting marked.

How accessible is the workshop?

Blueway Art Studio is on the ground floor so there are no stairs to climb. However, it’s an old building with a smaller than usual door so not all wheelchairs fit through.

You might not believe it, but everyone is creative! Some of the people who join us at the workshops may be practising creatives and others will be absolute beginners. All are welcome! You just need to bring an open mind and you will create something you will cherish.

What Our Participants Say

“Wonderful how story and history of medieval times in the area are revived and animated through this artist’s method – the monkey the mermaid and the gateway to heaven all just fascinating.”

YouTube Review February 2022

— SO Whelton —

“This is a really fascinating film, incredible to think of lithographs been made in Antarctica at this time.Thanks for the lithography demonstration. The whole project is so interesting ,thank you.”

YouTube Review January 2022

— Carol Kennedy —

“I never knew how prints were made or anything about lithography. I can’t believe they did this in Antarctica. I’m a huge Shackleton fan and this is a completely different insight for me. This is fascinating. Thanks for demonstrating”

YouTube Review January 2022

— Experiencing Ireland —

“Brilliant afternoon with Angelina.Spent a sunny afternoon with Angelina at Kilkea Castle. Learnt the art of grave rubbing – Angelina is a great teacher. She is patient, highly skilled and great fun. We all came away with something we’d made in the two hours”

Trip Advisor Review August 2021

— AnitaBreak41 —

“A very infomative and pleasant experience. Angelina was an excellent teacher. The practical, hands on experience allowed me to learn as we worked. Delighted with the results of the process”

Google Review June 2021

— Cristeen Kilkenny—

“Thank you angelina for a really great course on ecoprinting on japanese paper you were very generous with your knowledge and i had great fun. And so glad i could buy that awagami japanese paper from you wow its gorgeous”

Google Review June 2021

— Deirdre Crofts —

PRINT-MAKING WORKSHOPS

Gallery

set type
egill sans typeface
letterpress cheats
letterpress bookmarks
Back to Top