Paper so good you can feel it.

Learn more about the oh-so analog print process

What is
letterpress?

Letterpress is a centuries-old printmaking process that historically involves composing movable type pieces (individually cut lead or wooden letters) in a process called typesetting and locking those pieces into the press. As the press turns, the form is inked with rollers that glide over the surface, and as the platen meets the form, and an impression is made.

There are many types of presses used in letterpress printing. Betty (our number one girl) is a platen press. Flat bed presses, like the Vandercook, are also a common style of press used for this process. No matter the press, one thing remains the same: each piece of paper that is printed is hand fed, one by one. A true labor or love.

We are able to utilize new methods of plate-making to create completely custom designs outside of the realms of just typesetting. With these innovations, we breathe new life into this antique printing process, pairing our thoughtful and experimental design sensibilities with tried and true methods to create a stationery experience that combines style and substance.

Recent work

Services we offer

Somewhere in South Bend, Indiana, in a former dry cleaning factory-turned artists studios, you’ll find our presses turning and our brains storming.

Our studio

Video production by Blaske Studio.

Meet the presses

Kiki

Tabletop Press

Manufactured in mid-1900’s. Weighs approximately 70 lbs. Acquired in 2017 in Illinois.

She’s small. She’s… a little bit mighty. She’s great for teeny tiny printing areas!

  • Business cards

  • Coasters

  • Belly Bands

Betty

Floor Model Platen Press

Manufactured in 1901. Weighs approximately 1,200 lbs. Acquired in 2021 in Wisconsin.

Our number 1 gal! Our trusty steed! We print almost everything on Betty.

  • Letterpress

  • Embossing

  • Die-cutting

Frida

Foil Press

Manufactured in 2023. Weighs approximately 120 lbs. Acquired in 2023 from the UK.

Big Frida, better known as queen diva. She’s all about the Glitz and glamor!

  • Metallic Foil

  • Matte Pigment Foil

  • Embossing

Work with us

Workshops

join our mailing list and be the first to learn about upcoming workshops and other learning opportunities.

Wholesale

We print our entire line of wholesale letterpress goods in house.

The Letterpress Shop

Shop our line of ready to order and semi-custom letterpress products. Great for gifts or leveling up your stationery game.