Recently a couple clients have approached us with letterpress printing requests for their stationery systems. I’ve been wondering if this is simply a coincidence or a backlash against the low-quality cheap printing that has sprung up all over the web. I’ve always had an interest in letterpress printing and my hope as a designer is that people are excited about the nostalgic look and also the craftsmanship that goes into the printed piece.

My research has led me to a couple fantastic studios and other websites. Boxcar Press is a great studio in New York. They have a ton of great information for users getting started and also sell supplies including their Boxcar Base System. Worth a look. Briar Press is a fantastic resource for all things letterpress including a classifieds section, a fantastic list of bookmaking craftspeople, ink suppliers, papermakers and typefounders. Buy your own press while you are there.

These requests have also resparked my own interest. In my research I found the LillStreet Art Center here in Chicago. I’ve decided to take an eight week summer course at LillStreet Art Center called Letterpress in the Fold. It will be refreshing to revisit the guidelines of setting type for the press in such a hands on way. Keep an eye out here for some photographs of a finished limited edition book.

If you are interested in getting a quote for the design of a stationery system or packaging using letterpress send us an email or give us a call.