Express Yourself with Ink and Paper
Color, texture, text and images can be applied to paper in many different ways. The tools and expertise you need to explore them can be found in the Print & Book Arts studio. From the ancient craft of letterpress to using technology as part of the printing process, we’re here to help.
Renowned printmaking instructors come to BARN to share their knowledge. Book Arts is a regional specialty; the studio offers classes in the many facets of creating artists’ books.
Getting Started in the Studio
Print & Book Arts Calendar
- October 23, 2026
-
- October 26, 2026
-
- October 28, 2026
-
Printmaking
Printmaking is an artistic process involving the transfer of images from a substrate or plate onto paper using a press. BARN’s Print & Book Arts studio gives students and members access to a high-quality Takach Etching Press.
Printmaking can be done using many different techniques. At BARN, we focus primarily on monotype, linoleum block printing, drypoint etching on plexiglass, and shellac plate. Not familiar with those techniques? We’re here to help, regardless of where you are on your printmaking journey.
Letterpress
Moveable type meets fine paper. Letterpress is a method of relief printing that dates back to the 15th century. The process of assembling individual letters, whether for poems or posters, can be both creative and meditative. Add ink, and the force of the press results in prints that are subtly tactile.
BARN maintains a serious collection of type in an environment that invites formal typography, whimsical experimentation, and any number of stops in between.
Book Arts
Artists’ Books are works of art that use the form of a book. They often are produced as a one-of-a-kind object and feature embellishments such as pop-ups, accordion folds, or loose items contained in a box. Some are sculptural. BARN’s Book Arts community can give you the knowledge to set your imagination free. Binding, cutting, pop-up design, and more are taught at BARN.
Open Studio
Work on your own projects during Open Studio. To attend, first take one of our studio orientation. Learn more »
FAQ
Find answers to your questions about our classes and activities in our Print & Book Arts FAQ»
Volunteer
Volunteers keep the Print & Book Arts studio running. You can help! View opportunities »
Print & Book Arts Resources
Join our Facebook group
Join our community on BARN Circle
Contact Us
Message us using our form
Print & Book Arts office phone: 206-842-4475 x214
Laura Samant
Print & Book Arts Studio Lead
Print and Book Arts News
Coming Up in Print & Book Arts
The Print & Book Arts Studio has a full press run of classes ahead, from letterpress fundamentals to handmade books and monoprinting. Whether you're setting type for the first time or binding a book from scratch, there's a project waiting for you.
Handwork Tickets on Their Way
Tech Lab access levels up for members. Handwork Week tickets are almost here. Scary tales will be told. And REFRACT is bringing a full weekend of glass art to BARN, complete with an exhibition, a documentary screening, and live demos. There's a lot going on in October!
New Workshop with Dana Harris Seeger
The Print & Book Arts Studio keeps the presses rolling this October, with letterpress, printmaking, and bookbinding classes on the calendar. A highlight is a new workshop with Dana Harris Seeger, a Poulsbo artist who teaches and exhibits internationally.
Follow Us