Discover the Art of Letterpress Printing in Dublin: Create Unique Christmas Cards with Mary Plunkett
Difficulty
easy
Duration
6 hours
Fitness Level
No special fitness required; participants should be comfortable standing and working with hand tools for extended periods.
Overview
Craft your own Christmas cards with expert Mary Plunkett in a 6-hour Dublin workshop. Learn the traditional letterpress printing method that brings vintage artistry right to your fingertips.
Letterpress Christmas Cards with Mary Plunkett
23 Nov • Ages 18+ • 6 hours • No Experience Required!
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About This Adventure
Join a captivating 6-hour workshop to explore the art of traditional letterpress printing while crafting personalized Christmas cards. Perfect for beginners, you'll learn to set type by hand and print your creations. Enjoy a break with delicious homemade food at the on-site café, making this experience both creative and delightful.
Duration: 6 hours
About
During this workshop, participants will discover the fascinating techniques of traditional letterpress printing while creating and printing a personalised Christmas Card. Designed for those without prior printing experience, this workshop will cover setting type by hand and learning the mechanics of printing.
Includes
- All Materials
- Take 10-20 copies of your cards home with you
- 1-hour break for lunch
Accessibility
This workshop is conducted on the ground floor, where visitors will also find the Reception, Museum Shop, permanent exhibition, toilets, and Café. The ground floor is fully accessible to wheelchair users. Entry for wheelchairs is via the Café.
The Museum welcomes guide and service dogs.
Café
Press is an independent café located in the National Print Museum. All the food is lovingly homemade using fresh ingredients from Irish suppliers. Try one of the daily chalk board specials or a cup of delightful Cloud Pickers coffee, roasted and pressed in Dublin. Escape under the archway into a cosy enclave for breakfast, lunch or an afternoon treat on week days. A restorative rustic brunch menu is served on weekends.
Adventure Tips
Arrive On Time
The workshop is structured to cover all key steps; arriving late may cause you to miss important instruction.
Wear Comfortable Clothing
Printing involves standing and working with equipment—dress in layers for comfort throughout the session.
Bring an Open Mind
No prior experience is needed—come ready to learn and experiment with this hands-on craft.
Schedule Breaks for Rest
Take advantage of the café break to recharge and socialize; staying refreshed helps maintain focus.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Urban bird species including peregrine falcons.
- Squirrels and red fox sightings occasionally in nearby parks.
History
Letterpress printing was pivotal in Dublin's publishing history, with roots stretching back to the 18th century printing presses that helped shape Ireland’s literary culture.
Conservation
The workshop emphasizes sustainable materials by using recycled paper and eco-friendly inks whenever possible, promoting responsible craft practices.
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Adventure Hotspots in Dublin
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Comfortable Clothing
Allows ease of movement while working with hand-operated printing presses.
Notepad and Pen
Useful for jotting down notes or design ideas during the class.
Reusable Water Bottle
Stay hydrated throughout this multi-hour workshop.
Camera or Smartphone
Capture your creative process and finished cards for memories or sharing.