FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
FAQ
Answers to common questions about booking, access, and working at Dao Art Press.
Getting Started
Do you offer instruction or lessons? What experience is required?
No instruction or lessons are offered. The studio is for experienced printmakers who can work independently and want focused time on the press.
Location and Access
What is the address?
541 S Spring St, Los Angeles, CA 90013. The studio is inside the historic Spring Arcade Building on Gallery Row.
Is parking available?
Yes. There is a lot next door, another across the street, and a nearby garage. Parking is usually around 15 dollars and is generally easy to find.
What are your studio hours?
Studio sessions run from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
Safety and Materials
What materials are allowed in the studio?
Only non-toxic or low-toxicity materials are allowed. Odorless mineral spirits are permitted in small amounts for cleanup. Strong solvents or aerosol sprays are not allowed.
What inks can I use?
Both oil-based and water-washable inks are allowed. Canola oil is provided for the initial cleanup of oil-based ink, followed by Simple Green for final cleaning.
Can I soak paper on site?
Yes. The studio has paper soaking trays available for use.
Equipment and Supplies
What size is the press?
The studio features a Conrad E-31 etching press with a 30.5 × 60 inch steel bed and a 10 inch upper drum.
What supplies do you provide?
The studio provides:
- Brayers
- Large rollers
- Glass inking slabs
- Spatulas and ink knives
- Tarletan
- Newsprint
- Gloves
- Aprons
- Cleanup rags
- Canola oil
- Simple Green
What do I need to bring?
Please bring at minimum:
- Your plate or matrix
- Your paper
- Your ink
The studio sells some supplies in limited quantities. Inquire for details.
Studio Details
Can I adjust the press pressure?
Please do not adjust pressure on your own. If you need an adjustment, check with Don so it can be handled safely.
Do you provide tarletans, newsprint, or rags?
Tarletan, newsprint, and cleanup rags are included with your session.
Is there drying space?
Yes. The studio has a new AWT Rack It drying rack with 50 shelves sized 31 × 48 inches.
Can I store work overnight or between sessions?
Yes. Work can remain on the drying rack for up to two weeks after your session.
What happens if something goes wrong with the press?
Stop right away. Do not diagnose or force anything. Let Don know before you continue so the issue can be checked safely.
Studio Etiquette
Can I bring food or drinks?
You are welcome to bring food with you, but please enjoy it outside the studio workspace. Drinks are allowed if they have a secure lid and are kept away from the press.
Is there music or a TV available?
Yes. You can stream your music to the studio’s mini hi-fi system, and there is also a TV available for use during your session.
Policies and Payment
Can I bring a friend to print with me?
No. Each session is for one working artist only. The space is meant to be focused and distraction free.
Can I bring an assistant?
Yes, for an additional fee. An assistant can help with your project but cannot print their own work.
What is your cancellation policy?
The full policy is listed on the Policies page.
Can I reschedule instead of canceling?
Yes. Rescheduling follows the same timing rules as cancellations. Details are on the Policies page.
What if I show up late?
Your session begins at the scheduled start time. If you arrive late, it still ends at the original end time. Fees are not prorated.
What forms of payment do you accept?
Credit cards. All payments are processed online at the time of booking.
