Ask Preppy Girl – Letterpress

If you have a question for the Preppy Girl email it to me at preppygirl@thepreppylife.com.

Dear Preppy Girl,
I am embarrassed to admit that I do not know what letterpress is. My friend is getting married and she is OBSESSED with letterpress and I have no idea what she is talking about.
Thanks!

– Hillary

Dear Hillary,
Letterpress is a traditional printing process which transfers ink to the printed page by way of a metal, wooden, or photopolymer plate. It is usually identified by the indented impression the plate makes on the paper. Preparing letterpress is a highly-skilled process which can be very labor intensive and time consuming. Even today, many of the presses are still powered by hand.

Letterpress has recently seen a resurgence in popularity, due largely in part to Martha Stewart. Letterpress invitations, stationary, and business cards are are considered très chic and are highly sought after due to the care and cost associated with it. I hope that answers your question!

Best,
P.G.