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Metal Engravings for Letterpress

Letterpress printing from raised metal type was the primary means of mass communication for over 500 years. Engraving, which results in a raised final effect, or embossing, which results in an indented effect, are very old processes of adding type or image effects to paper by using metal engravings on a letterpress machine. You can also print type on the letterpress machine, although you are mostly limited to one color and one font.

  1. The Blocks

    • Ink is added to the letterpress in the same way as in offset printing.

      The metal blocks used in letterpress printing are blocks of wood with a metal plate glued onto them. The metal is engraved by machine or by hand to mirror the letter or effect ultimately required on paper or card.

    The Press

    • Once the blocks are finished, they are sorted and fixed to the letterpress machine for printing or embossing. Die-cut blocks are also added to the letterpress machine to cut shapes and effects onto the paper or a card.

    Printing Speed

    • A letterpress machine can produce up to 100 impressions per minute. Once all the required sheets are printed, embossed or cut, they are removed from the press. Depending on the type of project, they are then guillotine cut (if necessary) or packaged and sent to the customer.

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