Learning C&P / Heidelberg windmill
Hi all. I’ve just joined Briar Press and an really inspired by what I’m seeing. I’m starting to think I’ve hit a bit of a jackpot. I’m in the process of buying a rural newspaper in Oregon. Included in the deal is a C&P, Heidelberg windmill and Linotype. My wife has a background in digital design and we have both been big fans of quality paper and letterpress but have zero experience in making it. We’d like to learn the ropes and do some printing for some of the business that advertise in the paper. I’ve seen that there are a lot of presses in Portland but not sure where to go for an ongoing training. Seattle is also close enough but Portland is ideal. Thanks and very pumped to be in this circle.
Hello
I would be interested in hearing about your “small town newspaper” venture. Perhaps I could share some information
on your mechanical operation.
Later!
RB”
San Francisco Center for the Book (https://sfcb.org) offers the sort of programs you’re looking for. You can learn the C&P pretty easily, the Heidelberg has a learning curve, but well worth it. The Lino is a beast, and you may need a fair amount of training to even attempt it. Very complicated machine, but if you have patience and training, it’s a good investment of your time.
Yes tell us more about the Lino. Do they still use it? If so Who’s the operator? Will he teach you?
I am also interested in knowing which newspaper, my C&P 10x15 came (decades ago) from a rural newspaper in Oregon.
The newspaper is the Times-Journal in Condon, Oregon. It serves the smallest 3 counties in Oregon. Its current owner has had it since 1974 but it has been in existence since 1886. He no longer prints the weekly paper in house. He knows how to use and maintain the lino and other presses. I’m considering printing a quarterly magazine with the Lino to showcase area writers.
Not one item you have is easy to learn.
The C&P is easier to learn by watching some youtube videos.
What model Heidelberg are you getting.
You can get hurt very fast using a Heidelberg press.
The Linotype takes a longer time to learn if someone isn’t with you that knows how to operate a Linotype. If no one can help you, you will destroy the Linotype in a few minutes.
We’re expecting to get on-going guidance from the current owner. The Linotype is very intimidating and we’re planning to use on rare occasion.
To Big Horn Press: If the Linotype is in good operating condition - keep it. They are very rare. Don’t sell it off. Also, what press is being used to print the Newspaper? It sounds to me what you have is a Job Print Shop with the actual Newspaper printed off-site? The Linotype, C&P and Heidlelberg are just for “show”. Nothing wrong here- we all love these machines. I say hone your Digital Graphic skills & continue to publish your paper.