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Independent Studio Use at Common Press

Individuals who have completed the appropriate training can sign up to work on independent projects at Common Press. Timeslots are limited and only available on Thursdays and Fridays.

A close-up view of a traditional printing press in a printmaking workshop. A person operates the press while a large brass-colored ink roller moves over a printing plate arranged on the press bed. Wooden type cabinets and drawers filled with printing materials line the background.

Requirements for Independent Studio Use

Independent Studio Use is limited and availability varies depending on the individual’s letterpress printing experience.

To be approved to work on personal or class projects independently, individuals must complete one of the following prerequisites at the Common Press:

  • Complete a group workshop as part of a class or other group
  • Attend a Studio Use Training workshop
  • Attend a Print Your Own Postcard workshop

Printing during a Common Press Open Studio Session or Open House does not fill this requirement. Other prior letterpress experience cannot be substituted for one of these prerequisites. 

Independent Studio Use is only available to active PennCard holders. If you want to print your own projects and don’t have an active PennCard, we recommend The Soapbox, a wonderful local center for print with very affordable options for letterpress printing, risograph, screenprinting, and more.

Schedule Independent Studio Use

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