Start the Presses

by Noella Noelophile®
White exterior sign over the entrance indicates "The International Printing Museum" in black lettering with a blue-and-white border.
White outdoor sign over the entrance says “Printing Museum” in black lettering with a blue border

Mark your calendar! A fun creative event is coming up, in Carson.

And if, for whatever reason, you can’t experience it in-person, it ‘s also available virtually, right now! Here’s the link to experience it online.

Next Saturday and Sunday, November 7th and 8th (wow, November already!), the International Printing Museum in Carson, will host the 2021 Los Angeles Printers Fair!

Approximately 80 vendors will be on hand, showcasing the best of printing arts, including handmade paper, antiquarian books, and custom posters. (How’s that for a great gift for someone special?)

Lines of metal type set for old printing press
Royalty-free image by Mari77 from Pixabay

But visitors will get to do more than simply browse and shop.

Since the International Printing Museum houses the world’s largest collection of antique printing presses, guests can also get some hands-on experience.

Paper marbling (remember those gorgeous inside covers on antique books?), letterpress printing and screen printing T-shirts are all going to be demonstrated–and taught.

Proceeds will support the operation of the International Printing Museum, which is a 501c3 nonprofit. Here’s the link for information.

And if you’re currently isolating, here’s a resource page, courtesy of Los Angeles Printers Fair. (I particularly like the hand-bookbinding “how-to” videos by Stephanie Gibbs–can we say “make something special for Christmas” here?)

Royalty-free image by diabolos from Pixabay

During the Printers Fair, you’ll also be able to follow along with the activities, via livestream, at this link.

And you’ll get to explore their content virtually, and support their amazing vendors, right up until November 14th.

Not that I would ever tempt you (seriously, would I do that?), but looking online, my particular favorites include those beautiful handbound hardcover journals and sketchbooks from Jumping Whale Books, the limited-edition sunflower print by C.J. Whitlock, and Art Mina’s humorous, handprinted tea towels, shirts and tote bags.

I also really love what Annika Buxman is doing with her handmade marble paper, created by fair-trade artists in Bangladesh, from her South Pasadena studio, De Milo Design Studio & Letterpress.

Royalty-free image by tatlin from Pixabay

And if you’re looking ahead to December, here’s one more date to keep in mind.

On Saturday, December 11th, the International Printing Museum is hosting a “Holiday Kraft Day for Kids”. They’ll offer all kinds of hands-on printing activities with a holiday theme–and I’ll tell you all about it as more information becomes available!

The International Printing Museum, located at 315 West Torrance Boulevard in Carson, hosts the 2021 Los Angeles Printers Fair on Saturday and Sunday, November 6th and 7th, from 10 am to 4 pm. Tickets are available here. Proceeds support the International Printing Museum’s mission of continuing to bring the history of books and printing to life for diverse audiences.

Meanwhile, the livestream link, during Printers Fair hours, will be available here. And be sure to check out the tutorials, venders and experiences virtually, from now through Sunday, November 14th, at the Los Angeles Printers Fair link. Virtual admission is free.

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