Letterpress
Letterpress is a printing method where raised, inked images or type is pressed against paper to produce an image in reverse, resulting in an image depressed into the paper.
A simple definition for those just coming onto the wedding scene: ever ran your fingers along a fancy invitation and felt the depressed letters? That's letterpress.
Letterpress looks similar to engraving. The difference is that a letterpressed paper is flat on the back and depressed on the front. An engraved paper is depressed on the front and raised on the back.
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[edit] History
The process of letterpress dates back to the 15th century. The technique was the first printing method ever used -- it was used by Johannes Gutenberg to manufacture the Gutenberg Bible. Gutenberg is most known for the invention of moveable type that allowed for mass production of printed items -- thus making the Bible available to the masses.
[edit] Technique
Letterpress is a tedious process in which each letter must be set into place, inked and pressed onto a card. Each print -- or wedding invitation in your case -- is done seperately, giving the impression that every invitation was done with care.
[edit] Designing for letterpress
There are many things to consider when designing for letterpress. You will want to contact your letterpress shop directly to find out what papers they use, the types and ages of their machines, how they cut and fold after printing, the maximimum size sheet they can press, etc.
Letterpress plates and papers are generally large, up to 30x40 inches. A plate is prepared and the entire sheet is pressed at once. This means that you will have to arrange all your individual items (such as invitation, RSVP card, etc.) onto one or more sheets. You will have to allow for a bleed margin around the entire sheet (usually 1/2" to 1" wide on all sides) plus a gutter around each piece (typically 3/8"). You will also have to place crop marks around each piece. These are typically 1/8" long and must be at least 1/8" away from the nearest piece. Most shops accept Adobe Illustrator or PDF files for printing. You will have to convert any text to outlines. If you are using multiple colors, you will need to create a layer for each color and order the layers in the same order you want the ink laid.
[edit] Reputation
Letterpress invitations generally cost more than standard printed invitees, and have a reputation as classy and elegant.
--MrsPenguin 19:05, 5 May 2008 (EDT)
[edit] Weddingbee Posts
Posts On Letterpress
- Letterpress by Miss Grasshopper
Posts On Weddingbees' Letterpress Stationery
- Our Yummy Invitations Are Here by Miss Lovebug (Ephemera Letterpress)
- Tear: Invites Are Here! by Miss Petunia (Teardrop Weddings)
- Now I Know Why Letterpressing Is So Expensive by Miss Lollipop
- Lovely Letterpress by Miss Strawberry (Ilee Letterpress)
- Wildflower Letterpress: 5 Stars (Actually 5 Billion Stars by Miss Lily
- Invites Are Here! by Miss Plum (Speak's Letterpress)
- Etheral Ephemera by Miss Pearl
- Mecurio Brothers by Mrs. Bee
