How to Become a Lithograph Printer

The art of lithograph printing has been around for centuries and is one of the earliest forms of printing. Making a lithograph involves transferring an image carved into metal or stone onto a paper surface. Becoming a lithograph printer requires knowing more than just the definition of the term, of course. If you're interested in joining this profession, here are some important steps.

Instructions

1. Learn the techniques of lithography. Before you can secure a position in this area, you'll need to have some additional knowledge. You can most easily acquire that knowledge by attending a vocational school, university or art institute that offers courses in the subject. Ideally, the coursework will involve both traditional and modern methods of lithography, including the use of computer software to manipulate the images in a lithograph.

2. Become an apprentice. In many trades, apprenticeship is still a standard way of bringing new people into the profession. As an apprentice, you will work as an actual printer and will be applying what you have learned. However, you will be doing all of this under the watchful eye of someone who has more experience in the field. That way you can learn from doing but also learn from your more knowledgeable peers. As an apprentice, you will be paid but your salary will usually be about half what you'll be paid as a non-apprentice.

3. Search for a position in the industry. Once you've completed your apprenticeship training, you'll be able to get a job as a full-fledged lithograph printer. Sometimes you'll be hired on by the same company where you completed your apprenticeship. Other times you may want to seek out a new place of employment where you can continue to learn and grow as a printer. The best way to find these positions is by looking through local classifieds, checking online job search sites and networking with printers through unions and organizations in your area.

4. Continue learning more about lithography. Even after you've secured a position as a lithograph printer, you should continue expanding your experience and knowledge of the field. Many exciting developments are ahead for lithography, including nanolithography which is a process by which very small images are recreated. These types of developments are not usually found in traditional printing industries. Nanolithography, for example, is most often found in the semiconductor industry but having a background in lithography could help you secure one of these more lucrative positions down the road.