Studio Labs – Minnesota Center for Book Arts

The Minnesota Center for Book Arts (MCBA) offers a series of Studio Labs that provide artists with low‑cost, self‑directed access to specialized book‑arts equipment and workspaces. Labs include Bookbinding, Cutting Equipment, Papermaking, Letterpress, Marbling, Screen Print, and related orientations. Participants register in advance, must have prior training for the specific equipment, and work independently while receiving informal assistance from Studio Fellows. Fees are tiered (e.g., $35/$18/$53 for Tuesday sessions and $50/$25/$75 for Saturday sessions, with a Pay‑It‑Forward option) and members receive a 10 % discount. The labs run on a weekly or monthly schedule, with registration closing 24 hours before each session. MCBA emphasizes accessibility, offering reduced‑rate tuition for individuals facing adversity related to identity, income, or access to resources. Additional resources include studio fellowship, equipment manuals, and links to related workshops and the Artist Collective. No credit is awarded, and the labs are not a residency or grant but a studio‑access program for practicing makers.

Access to specialized book‑arts equipment, studio space, informal assistance from Studio Fellows, fellowship with other makers, equipment manuals, and optional participation in related workshops.

Must have prior training/experience with the specific lab equipment; registration required in advance; open to individual artists and makers; Pay‑It‑Forward tuition option available for those facing financial adversity.