Print Shop

Design in Action. Communication Through Print. Skills for the Real World.
The Print Shop Program at Boys Republic gives students practical experience in visual design, print production, and project management. Students gain technical and professional skills that prepare them for careers in graphic design, marketing, and commercial printing by working on real jobs for school events and nonprofit clients.

Program Overview

  • Hands-On Training in Print Production:
    Students learn the step-by-step process of turning digital designs into physical products, including:
    • Posters, flyers, brochures, and banners
    • Event signage and promotional materials
    • Custom projects for internal school use and external nonprofit clients
  • Real-World Application:
    • The class functions like a professional print shop, simulating actual work environments
    • Students complete real assignments that serve:
      • Campus programs and events
      • Community partners and nonprofit organizations
      • Fundraisers and public outreach campaigns

Design & Technical Skill Development

  • Graphic Design Fundamentals:
    Students are introduced to design principles and software basics, learning:
    • Layout and composition techniques
    • Typography, color theory, and branding basics
    • How to use design software to create print-ready files
  • Production Skills:
    • Training includes operating professional equipment such as:
      • Large-format printers
      • Vinyl cutters and laminators
      • Paper trimmers and finishing tools
    • Students learn how to:
      • Set up files for print
      • Manage ink and material usage
      • Troubleshoot common printing issues
  • Workflow & Quality Control:
    • Students develop critical thinking and problem-solving as they:
      • Organize job queues
      • Meet production deadlines
      • Ensure consistency and accuracy in every print job

Professional Skills & Career Preparation

  • Client-Focused Work Environment:
    • Students learn to communicate with “clients” (staff, instructors, and nonprofit partners)
    • They practice:
      • Taking project briefs
      • Understanding client needs and expectations
      • Delivering on time and to spec
  • Project Management Skills:
    • Emphasis is placed on managing:
      • Project timelines and milestones
      • Team roles and responsibilities
      • Revisions and approvals
  • Career-Ready Experience:
    Students leave the program with:
    • Marketable experience in design and production
    • A foundational understanding of the print and marketing industries
    • Improved organizational, communication, and time-management skills

Confidence, Creativity & Collaboration

  • Building Confidence Through Creation:
    • Students take pride in seeing their work displayed at events and in the community
    • Their contributions are visible, tangible, and appreciated by their peers and staff
  • Fostering Teamwork:
    • The print shop operates as a team-based environment
    • Students learn how to collaborate, support one another, and divide responsibilities effectively
  • Encouraging Creative Expression:
    • Students are encouraged to express ideas visually and explore their creative abilities within structured projects
    • The program nurtures both artistic and practical skill sets