Introducing Thin Ice Press

Posted on 21 August 2018

A team of staff and students from the Department of English and Related Literature are building a fully operational printing studio.

The former studyroom D/L/051 is undergoing an exciting transformation into the York Print Studio, home to Thin Ice Press. The new studio is full of presses from across the centuries, including an early 18th-century wooden common press that was once owned by Thomas Gent - the York printer who produced pamphlets on the frozen River Ouse in 1740 - which is kindly loaned by Scarborough Museums Trust.

Proving that print isn’t dead, the enthusiastic team will be recording and preserving craft knowledge from partners and collaborators. Students and members of the public will also get the chance to work alongside staff and visiting printers to explore the wonders of letterpress and produce distinctive and beautiful publications.

The exciting new project debuted at the University Open Days in June with talks and live demonstrations of a baby table-top Adana press. While the presses are the project’s main expense, the team has launched a crowdfunder through OPPA’s YuStart platform to raise vital funds that will ensure the press’s smooth running, as well as the employment of a printer - someone who will research and practice ancient craft techniques, and keep the beauty of bookmaking alive for students, and generations to come.

Follow the journey of Thin Ice Press on Instagram @thinicepress and read their blog.

Find out more and support the Thin Ice Press fundraising campaign.