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Popular Questions

Letterpress

What is letterpress?

Letterpress is a relief print method that creates a textured, debossed impression into the paper or card, and is what we specialise in. Traditionally it uses wood or metal type set in a chase, which is inked and pressed into the paper. We are a contemporary letterpress print company, meaning we use polymer plates to really emphasise the texture where possible. It also gives us the freedom to use any typefaces, drawing or calligraphy we like.

What printing presses do you have?

• Two Original Heidelberg Windmill presses, both 1960s. One uses ink and one we've adapted to print with hot foil. We use these two the most.

• Stephenson Blake proofing press - perfect for one off or very short run posters and artwork using wood or metal type.

• Model No. 1, No. 2 and No. 3 table top presses. Robust, cast iron presses with an elegant charm. We use these ones in our letterpress printing workshops.

• Soldan Proofer, our biggest press and such a beast it had to be put in the basement. Can print up to SRA1, amazing fun for big huge work.

I already have a completed design, can you print it?

We generally create the design as well as the printing - we know the limitations of the presses and as they are extremely important to us we want to keep them as happy as possible. We know what will and won't work on them - from line thickness to kinds of paper. If you have some artwork already - an illustration you'd like to use for example - then we'd be happy to take a look and see if it will be suitable.

How long does it take?

As everything is utterly bespoke each detail can affect how long your project will take. As a rough guide, from sign off of the approved artwork we would generally allow 3-4 weeks for printing.

For things that require speed, we do our utmost to get things done as quickly as possible.

Calligraphy

Do you teach workshops?

Yes! We run regular Copperplate calligraphy and Brush lettering workshops at our store in Bath. They are usually on a Saturday. You can see all the current dates available here.

My nib isn't working

New nibs have a coating on them to protect them from rust when in storage. For optimum ink holdage / usage you'll need to remove that coating. There are a few different ways to do this:

• Pass the nib through a flame - not for too long!

• Use an old soft toothbrush and small amount of toothpaste and brush the nib.

• Stick the nib into a potato for ten minutes - the starch will remove the coating!

Shipping, Returns & Exchanges

We use all major carriers, and local courier partners. You’ll be asked to select a delivery method during checkout.

What is our shipping policy?

Once your order is placed, you will receive a confirmation email letting you know that we've received your order. For all custom order we require 7 working days for despatch. Once your order is fulfilled, you will receive an email notification. Shipping fees are non-refundable in the case of returns.

Do you ship internationally?

Yes, we ship all over the world. Shipping costs will apply, and will be added at checkout. We use Royal Mail Standard shipping or UPS International tracked.

Can I collect from the store?

Yes, if you are local you can place your order online and we'll notify you by email to let you know it's ready to collect.

Returns policy - in store

For in store purchases we are happy to replace or refund an item that is faulty. If you have changed your mind or picked the wrong item we'd be happy to offer store credit as long as the item is returned in pristine condition.

Returns policy - online orders

If you’re looking to return or exchange your order we offer returns or exchanges within 14 days of purchase for whatever reason on all online orders over £42. You can return your product for store credita different product, or a refund to the original payment method. For orders under £42 we are happy to offer store credit if you've changed your mind, or a refund or exchange if there is something wrong with your order. For custom and bespoke items we are unable to offer a refund or exchange unless the item is faulty - if it is we will, of course, replace the item where we can, or offer a full refund on it's return.

Get in touch

Would you like a quote, have questions about your order, or a general enquiry?