Last week, I had the chance to stop by the new Levi’s Workshop on Valencia St. during an all-day press event that brought in a slew of local writers and editors to check out the space. Lily Ko of SF Station and I ran into each other on my way in (her way out), while San Francisco magazine’s Elizabeth Varnell popped in just as Allison McCarthy, of 7×7, and I were finishing up our tour of the space.

While Levi’s, though indisputably local, can no longer be considered indie in any way, there’s still a reason for indie-minded shoppers to consider a visit to the space, which combines printing presses and materials with a small pop-up display of Levi’s apparel and a hangout area for those who want to sit and peruse the print posters and zines decorating the walls. One, the space offers free use of its equipment (two Vandercook proof presses (32-28 and SP25), tabletop platen presses, photocopier and a screenprinting station) to the public on Sundays. Remember that t-shirt project you never got around to finishing? Well, here’s your chance to print it up for free, as long as you bring your own t-shirts. Second, all proceeds from the sale of Levi’s merch in the space (we’re betting the trucker vests will be a hit this summer) benefit local non-profits such as Southern Exposure and The Women’s Building.

Also, the space is holding a series of events this month and next that involve local celebs such as Craig Newmark and Alice Waters.

Photography courtesy of Levi’s