The pandemic has come with some unusual changes in routine that have had many benefits in terms of making progress on my first book project.
Progress During the Pandemic
Vandercook Universal III Repairs
Learning more about mechanics has been one of the surprising and wonderful aspects of working to get my printing press operation up and running. If I'm not actually able to practice printing, I'm at least learning how to repair and maintain the presses.
New Leather Belt for the C&P
My C&P press had an old car belt hooked up to the old motor, and the previous owner had put a ton of black electrical tape on one end of the motor to keep the belt from migrating off as it ran. In addition to replacing the motor and getting rid of that tape, we added a leather drive belt this week.
Polymer Plate Making for Letterpress
This month I completed the Polymer Plate classes taught by book artist, Lars Kim, at the San Francisco Center for the Book.
Press Installation
Last week, the majority of the press equipment and type was moved from storage into the studio.
Mock-up Press Equipment Placement
Progress is being made! Here are photos of mock-ups of the press equipment. The Vandercook is on one side and the C&P is on the other.
Cylinder Press Core Certification
In February, I completed the Cylinder Core Curriculum at the SF Center for the Book. We practicing setting type, working with a pica ruler, pulling proofs, locking up the type in the Vandercook press beds, inking, adjusting the rollers...
