Business Details
20 Years
experience
Handcrafted Woodcut Prints in Pittsburgh
Founded in 2006, Tugboat Printshop has established itself as a premier artist press specializing in handcrafted woodcut prints. Our dedication to traditional printmaking techniques ensures each piece is a unique, high-quality artwork. We utilize hand-drawn and hand-carved birch plywood blocks, archival papers, and oil-based inks to create limited edition prints. Our process emphasizes consistency and uniformity, with each print meticulously numbered, titled, and signed by the artist. Over 18 years, we have cultivated a reputation for excellence, with works featured in prestigious institutions like the Library of Congress.Our founder, Valerie Lueth, brings extensive experience from her background in printmaking and education, offering workshops and visiting artist programs. We prioritize transparency, ethical practices, and direct engagement with our patrons through newsletters, exhibitions, and in-person studio visits. Our commitment to preserving traditional methods while fostering creativity has earned us international recognition. We ensure every print reflects both technical precision and artistic innovation, making Tugboat Printshop a trusted name in the art community.
Services
Woodcut Prints
Limited Edition Prints
Printmaking Workshops
Art Exhibitions
Online Sales
Details
- Year established: 2006
Highlights and features
- We have 18 years of experience in handcrafted woodcut printmaking.
- Our prints use traditional, hand-carved birch plywood blocks.
- Each limited edition print is numbered, titled, and signed.
- We employ archival materials for lasting artistic quality.
- Our works are featured in institutions like the Library of Congress.
Services
Woodcut Prints
Tugboat Printshop creates original woodcut prints using traditional hand-carving techniques. Each artwork is hand-inked and printed on archival paper with oil-based inks. Limited editions ensure exclusivity, with every print numbered, titled, and signed by the artist.
Printmaking Workshops
We offer hands-on woodcut printmaking workshops for all skill levels. Participants learn traditional techniques, from sketching to carving and printing. Workshops emphasize creativity and technical precision, guided by experienced printmakers.
Limited Edition Prints
Our limited edition prints are produced in batches of 50-200 pieces, ensuring quality and collectibility. Each print retains subtle variations due to the hand-inked process, making every piece a unique original artwork.
Art Exhibitions
Tugboat Printshop regularly participates in art exhibitions and fairs. Our works are displayed in galleries and cultural institutions nationwide. Exhibitions provide opportunities for patrons to view and purchase prints directly from the artist.
Online Sales
Browse and purchase woodcut prints through our online shop and Etsy store. We offer secure payment options and mindful shipping. Subscribers receive updates on new releases and special events.
People
Valerie Lueth
Artist/Printmaker/Owner
Valerie Lueth founded Tugboat Printshop in 2006 after earning her BFA in Printmaking. With 18 years of experience, she specializes in hand-carved woodcut prints exhibited globally. Her work is featured in the Library of Congress and private collections.
Questions
What materials do you use for your woodcut prints?
We use hand-carved birch plywood blocks, archival papers, and oil-based inks for lasting quality.
Are your prints signed and numbered?
Yes, each limited edition print is numbered, titled, and signed by the artist.
Do you offer printmaking workshops?
Yes, we conduct workshops at institutions like the Women's Studio Workshop and Society for Contemporary Craft.
Can I visit your studio in Pittsburgh?
Studio pick-ups are available by appointment. Contact us to arrange a visit.
How are your prints shipped?
We ship mindfully and accommodate special delivery requests when possible.
Are your prints available internationally?
Yes, our online shop ships globally, and works are collected by international patrons.
