Lithography is a career that focuses on printing images or text, and it has undergone many changes over the years. A basic understanding of basic equipment and techniques is required if one wishes to work as a lithographer. Higher education courses on lithographic subjects like photography and printing presses can provide this knowledge. A lithographic training degree from a two-year technical school or a four-year university, as well as a position as an apprentice in a lithographic business, could be extremely beneficial. Employment opportunities as a lithographer can be found in both the public and private sectors after graduation.
Printing systems are used by lithographers. The primary goal of lithographers is to transfer text, drawings, or symbols from a stone or metal lithograph plate to a surface. Practitioners may also be in charge of chemically etching the image or text onto the plate. Any object with a print, such as commercial packaging, books, and newspapers or magazines, is almost certainly the work of a lithographer.
Higher education may give interested individuals a leg up on the competition for lithographic jobs. Lithographer education and training is generally available at major universities, art schools, and vocational institutes. These classes also assist students in staying current with technological advancements in the field, as well as preparing them for maintenance-related or other potentially problematic issues.
An apprenticeship with an established printer can provide hands-on training for a potential lithographer. During this time of training, the individual can put actual techniques into practice under the supervision of an experienced professional. An apprentice will also gain experience with the supervisory process, which he or she may be required to perform at a later stage in their lithographic career.
Those wishing to work as lithographers must be skilled in a variety of areas. For starters, familiarity with the operation of various manufacturing machines is required. Lithographers work with printing presses, plate makers, and binders on a regular basis. Cameras, film, and other photographic equipment will be handled by them as well. To create a lithographic image, or lithograph, computer design skills may be required.
Lithographers must have sharp vision and a keen eye for detail due to the meticulous nature of their work. Heavy equipment handling may also necessitate an individual with greater strength than average. After gaining sufficient experience, a candidate will most likely be asked to take on a supervisory role.
After completing the necessary steps, a potential lithographer can look for work in a variety of fields. Those with a creative bent can apply their graphic design skills to commercial manufacturers or other similar businesses. Some artists even specialize in the use of lithographic printing techniques in their work. Lithographers are employed by almost every company that distributes written materials, and their official job titles range from ad compositor to photoengraving printer. Lithographers can work in the private sector or for the government, creating materials for government agencies or the military.