Handset Letterpress Workshop

This one-day workshop introduces participants to the traditional craft of handset typography and letterpress printing through a practical, hands-on experience with Moveable Type Studio's Pop Up Press and Gatakers Print Studio. 

Designed for printmakers and creatives with an interest in expanding their printmaking practice, the workshop explores the tools, materials, and processes used in traditional letterpress production. Participants will work with historic wood type, traditional lock-up equipment, and contemporary laser-engraved relief plates, gaining an understanding of how these processes continue to inform contemporary print and design practice. 

Working through the workflow from composition to printing, participants will learn the fundamentals of Letterpress typesetting, lock-up, registration, inking, and impression while developing an appreciation for the material nature of traditional typography and relief printing.

Workshop Content

Participants are introduced to the Pop Up Press, Albion Press and the core
tools of traditional letterpress printing, including:

•             Wood type and relief printing blocks

•             Composing tools and galleys

•             Furniture, reglets and spacing material

•             Chases and lock-up systems

•             Rollers, inks and proofing equipment

Discussion will cover the language of the printshop, type anatomy, type height, and the role of points and picas as systems of measurement.

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When: Saturday, 5 July 2026

Time: 10am – 4.00pm

Where: Gatakers Artspace Print Studio, 311 Kent Street Maryborough

Cost: $85 

Suitable for: Ages 16+ 

All materials provided.

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Workshop Facilitators

The workshop is facilitated by Clint Harvey, design neducator, typographer, and founder of Moveable Type Studio, together with Dzintra Menesis, printmaker and program coordinator.

Moveable Type Studio specialises in the preservation and contemporary application of traditional printing practices through workshops, public programs, artist residencies, and community engagement projects across regional and metropolitan Australia.

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Workshop Cancellation Policy

Gatakers Artspace cannot accept responsibility for any changes in personal circumstances. Missed workshops or change of mind are at your own expense.  If a participant chooses to cancel their confirmed registration, or cannot or does not attend the workshop, the following will apply:

• The registered participant may invite another person to substitute their place in the workshop (in which they are registered) at any time at no charge;
• If notice is received 2 or less days from the scheduled starting date, a refund will not be offered;
• If a workshop is cancelled by Gatakers Artspace a full refund or a reschedule will be provided. Gatakers Artspace will endeavour to advise participants of cancellation at least 48 hours prior to workshop. 

This event is supported by the Regional Arts Development Fund, a partnership between the Queensland Government and Fraser Coast Regional Council to support local arts and culture in regional Queensland.