The "Hand-Printed Book" is a studio course taught in the Bancroft press room. Using antique presses and 19th century type, each class produces by hand a rare first edition of a work from the Bancroft collections that has never been published before. As students learn how hand-produced books have been made in the west for the last 500 years, they are also taught about the history of the book, using examples from Bancroft's rare books and manuscripts collection.

This course emphasizes practical experience in the printing of the hand-made book. Students will closely examine rare books and artifacts and print a small book using 19th and 20th century handpresses. Assigned readings, discussions of the history of book design and production, and the history of publishing are all important parts of the course. Students from all disciplines are encouraged to contact the instructor: lesferriss@earthlink.net or pressroomclass@berkeley.edu. Enrollment is limited and is by consent of the instructor. This course offers students a rare opportunity to study, and experience hands on, the history of book design, printing, and publishing.

Enrollment is by consent of the instructor. Contact either lesferriss@earthlink.net or pressroomclass@berkeley.edu.

Repeat Rules

Course is not repeatable for credit.

Requirements class fulfills