Letterpress Printing: A Manual for Modern Fine Press Printers

by Paul Maravelas

First edition. Letterpress Printing is the comprehensive sourcebook for beginning and intermediate letterpress printers. Using clear explanations of technical terms and more than 80 illustrations, the manual describes presses, ink, paper, press operation, type and photopolymer plates. The book shows how to set up and run small and large platen presses, and Vandercook and Challenge-style hand cylinder presses. One chapter provides details about presses recommended by the author; another chapter explains how to equip and arrange a new letterpress shop. Also discussed is how to plan and design projects, how to move presses and equipment, and how to use lead and solvents safely. A discussion of recent trends helps the reader to understand the niche now occupied by the letterpress process and the techniques used by its practitioners. Includes one glossary of terms relating to paper, and another glossary of terms relating to printing. This is an up to date work for students and fine press printers wishing to sharpen their skills. Co-published by The British Library.

Genres: Collections

205 pages, Hardcover

First published January 1, 2005

Reviews

[Monique · Rating 5 out of 5]

I read this before I took letterpress classes and then after...what a world of difference actually seeing a letterpress printing press running makes. This is an excellent tool to use once you have taken class. I would not recommend trying to learn how to print based solely on you reading this book as you can't hear the rhythm of a good press running nor establish safe timing for hand feeding the press for starters.
The maintenance section in particular is great as it lists exactly what should be used for proper press maintenance.

[Lisa · Rating 5 out of 5]

A letterpress manual for modern times! Highly informative and very useful - includes information about how to restore damaged type, where to find supplies, and more.