STUDIO POLICIES
Policies and Guidelines
Working at Dao Art Press is meant to support focused, independent printmaking with care toward the equipment, the space, and each other. These guidelines help keep the studio consistent, safe, and welcoming.
General Requirements
Intro Session Requirement
An intro session (approximately 30 minutes) is required for all first-time artists. This allows us to meet, review studio access and safety protocols, and ensure the space is a good fit. After completing the intro session, you’re free to book independent press time online. Request an intro session.
Experience Level
This studio is for experienced printmakers who can print independently. Artists are responsible for their own technical decisions, print outcomes, and cleanup.
Session Guidelines
Sessions are for one artist at a time unless approved in advance. Artists may leave and return freely during their booked session. No food in the workspace; drinks with lids are permitted. Sessions start and end at the scheduled time; late arrivals do not extend your end time. Payment is required at time of booking to hold your session.
Access & Parking
The Spring Arcade Building is a secured property with 24-hour security and controlled entry. Guests use the ButterflyMX call system at the front entrance, and a security guard will assist with access to the elevator up to the third floor.
Parking is available in lots next door and across the street, as well as a nearby garage (currently around $15). Street parking may also be available depending on the time of day.
Booking, Cancellations & Rescheduling
Cancellation Policy
• 72 hours or more: full refund
• 48–72 hours: 50 percent refund
• Under 48 hours: non-refundable
• No-shows: non-refundable
Rescheduling Policy
• 72 hours or more: free rescheduling
• 48–72 hours: 50 percent rescheduling fee
• Under 48 hours: no rescheduling available
Timeframes calculated based on the timestamp of your email to [email protected]
Safety Requirements
Closed-toe shoes are required. Long hair must be tied back and loose clothing secured. Low-toxicity practices are required. Canola oil and Simple Green are provided for cleanup. No harsh solvents or flammable chemicals are permitted.
Materials & Studio Use
What to Bring
Minimum: your plate and your paper.
Optional: your own inks, chine collé papers, personal tools (inking knives, brushes, rollers), specialty modifiers, adhesives for chine collé, or any preferred materials you like to work with.
What’s Provided
House inks, tarlatan, rags, gloves, newsprint, canola oil, Simple Green, and basic tools for plate prep are provided each session. The studio is equipped with the essentials needed for inking, wiping, and printing safely.
Storage Policy
No storage for plates, paper, tools, or supplies between sessions. Exception: Artists with consecutive day bookings may leave materials overnight between their scheduled sessions only.
Drying Rack
Prints may remain on the drying rack for up to 2 weeks. Prints left longer than 2 weeks will be discarded.
Equipment Care
Respect for the Conrad E31
Treat the press with care and intention. Do not adjust pressure settings, blankets, drum height, or calibration until you consult with Don. If something feels off, stop immediately and ask before continuing.
Damage Policy
Artists are responsible for any damage to studio equipment or facilities caused by misuse or negligence. Repair or replacement costs will be billed to the artist. Payment must be received before future bookings can be made. If you’re unsure about how to use any equipment, stop and ask before proceeding.
Cleanup Expectations
All surfaces, tools, rollers, and inking stations must be returned clean. This includes wiping down tables, the press bed, handles, and any areas you used, cleaning all tools and equipment, and leaving the space in the same condition you found it or better.
Liability
Artists assume all risk while using studio equipment and facilities. Dao Art Press is not liable for personal injury, damage to personal property, or print outcomes. A liability waiver must be signed during the intro session before booking independent press time.