Field Trips=insight into the printing world

This past Tuesday, my teacher Leslie Jensen-Inman set up a field trip for my Process and Materials for Graphic Design course. This was our second to last day of class so it was a fun end to a very insightful semester. We ventured over to Allegra Printing & Imaging in Chattanooga TN, where we were greeted then taken on a tour of the facility. Our tour Guide, Todd, was very enthusiastic about his job, which makes us excited about printing. First on our tour we were taken to the Graphic Design department where there is only one graphic designer. She deals with adjusting the files sent and sometimes designing the files. Then we went to the small printing press where small books are printed and then we got to see how they bind the books. Next, we were able to see how they glue books together, which can be done by hand and a paintbrush. This machine was called the Paddy Wagon. It was the neatest contraption. We also saw the machine used to fold brochures or booklets; it was quick and efficient. Also, that day they were assembling a sign for a local dentist company. It took many people to assemble but in the end it came out beautifully.

Everyone was gracious to stop what they were doing and explain their process. Everyone was very friendly and there were a lot of intelligent people who work there. They are a community print shop and should be supported by the community.