The International Printing Museum

If you love typography and printing, the International Printing Museum is a must-visit. This small museum is about a half-hour south of downtown Los Angeles and features one of the world's largest collections of antique printing presses.

There are a number of educational programs for school groups, including a "Museum on Wheels" that travels to schools and public events with a Ben Franklin-type press, as well as tours focusing on the history of the Constitutional Convention and the Book Arts Tour. The Book Arts Tour is a two-hour hands-on experience allowing students to explore the graphic arts through a variety of authentic and replica printing and book making machines.

The Museum is open for walk-in tours Saturdays only, 10 AM to 4 PM, or during the week by appointment. General Admission is $12 for adults and $10 for children, seniors, and student groups, and includes a guided tour of the museum.

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For young visitors, the "Books and Letters" program is a must-see. This program focuses on the history of paper, books and graphics from China to the invention of the printing press. It includes a tour of the museum, a page from the Gutenberg Bible and a chance for students to make their own paper using a Chinese printing block.

This tour is perfect for middle and high school students who want to learn about the history of printing and typography. The tour starts with the Chinese invention of paper and printing, then moves on to the invention of the printing press and the Gutenberg Bible. In addition, students will make their own paper from a Chinese printing block, bind a book, and even dip their hands in the cold water of a paper maker's vat!

The "Ben Franklin" press, a replica of Franklin's working colonial printing shop, is a favorite among school groups. The press is so impressive that it has been featured in many movies, including Amistad, Amish Medicine Woman, The Last Samurai, Gilmore Girls, and Seven Pounds.

There are also a number of exhibits that feature the history of the printing press, from early 19th century lithography to the Linotype machine that changed the world. The museum is staffed by knowledgeable docents who guide visitors through the history of printing and give them a chance to touch and feel some of the fascinating machines on display.

These docents are great with kids and provide an entertaining experience for everyone. They also have a gift shop with a variety of mementos and souvenirs for visitors.

For a limited time, admission to the museum is free for all active duty military members and their families, including National Guard and Reserve, through the Blue Star Museums Program offered by the National Endowment for the Arts (NEA). To receive this discount, visit the museum on Memorial Day through Labor Day and present a valid NEA Blue Star Museum Pass or other applicable proof of service.

The International Printing Museum hosts the annual LA PRINTERS FAIR every October, a large letterpress swap meet with 80 artistic vendors. The Printers Fair is a fundraiser for the museum and a great way to support the printing arts!