A Risograph printer is a stencil duplicator. It is capable of printing in many colors, but only one at a time. Each color has a specific ink drum that is loaded into the machine. The image itself is burned onto a rice paper master and then wrapped around the drum, where ink is then pushed through it (similar to screen printing). The process is often described as a cross between screen printing and photocopying.

Risograph duplicators are used for a variety of things, from office settings to zines, flyers, books, posters, and art prints. Because they use a soy based ink, the process is cheaper long term and more environmentally sustainable.

Rathaus Press was founded by Evan Bobrow in 2021 in Rochester, NY. Evan has been operating risograph printers since 2019- primarily as a resident of Flower City Arts Center; and has been working in small press since 2015. In addition to being a for hire print shop our goal is to create space for community members to develop their work. Print is a way to democratize information and elevate artists by making their work be seen. We want to give artists who have not had opportunities in the art world the chance for their voices to be heard.

Rathaus Press is a print and design studio. This means we can print your designs, or help you make something from scratch. Additionally, we offer both group and one on one workshops to fit your needs. If you’re not sure if we can help you, please reach out! If we can’t, we can connect you with someone who can.