Immerse yourself into a truly authentic experience at the National Print Museum in Dublin City. Its collection is made up largely of letterpress printing equipment. Letterpress is a form of relief printing, which was invented by Johannes Gutenberg in 1439. The invention is one of the greatest known to mankind, as its impact has shaped our histories and its contemporary relevance is greater than ever before.
The main collection is not behind glass or rope, but is instead an example of a working collection, organised like a fully operational print shop. Visitors are invited to roll up their sleeves and pull their own letterpress keepsake.
Visit their website for details of guided tours, where you can explore Ireland's rich printing history. A highlight is undoubtedly the story of the production of the nation's most historic printed document, the 1916 Proclamation.
The temporary exhibitions explore the impact of print and the powerful role it played in shaping our histories. Printed artefacts capture the spirit of the age in which they were created. Print forms an intrinsic part of our lives, and the development, prosperity, and rich heritage of Irish printing form an important part of our national story of craft and industry.
After your visit enjoy homemade fare using fresh ingredients from Irish suppliers at the Press Café.
- Introduction to Mokuhanga Printing with Ann Kavanagh
Arts and cultureIntroduction to Mokuhanga Printing with Ann Kavanagh In this workshop, you will be introduced to the authentic fundamentals of Japanese woodblock printing. Participants will engage in a process that includes transferring their own design, carving, printing, and editioning their first print.
- Modern Calligraphy Workshop with Sarah O'Dea
Arts and cultureModern Calligraphy Workshop with Sarah O'Dea Are you a lover of lettering or do you want to learn a new skill this winter? Why not try this Calligraphy workshop?
- Woodtype Poster Printing Workshop
Arts and cultureWoodtype Poster Printing Workshop This workshop is a great introduction to the techniques and results of letterpress printing. Learn a new skill this winter!
- Bookbinding (Buttonhole Stitch) with Caroline Byrne
Arts and cultureBookbinding (Buttonhole Stitch) with Caroline Byrne In this workshop, participants will make a book using the Button Hole stitch. This softback book has a distinctive exposed spine which enables the book to lie flat when open.
- Monoprinting Workshop with Susan LEen
Arts and cultureMonoprinting Workshop with Susan LEen This new workshop from the National Print Museum and artist Susan Leen will provide an intro to the versatile printmaking technique of Monoprint.
- View the collection, organised like a fully operational print shop.
- Pull your own letterpress keepsake as a memento of your visit.
- Hear the story of how the nation's most historic document, the 1916 Proclamation, was produced.
