Printing Methods 

We currently offer two printing methods for your custom design needs: letterpress printing and flat printing. While you might prefer one over the other, remember that they can be combined to fit your needs and most importantly, your budget.

Letterpress printing is an antique method of printing where raised plates are inked and pressed onto the paper, leaving an indentation behind. Of Note Stationers uses this method for our line of everyday cards. In the past, plates were made out of wood or metal. Nowadays, printing plates are made out of a plastic–it’s called a polymer–which allows for more intricate designs. Traditionally letterpress printers used much less pressure so that the ink just "kissed" the surface of the paper. However, as modern stationers we are much more interested in deeper impressions that show off the texture and tactile quality of the process.

• Why does letterpress printing cost much more than flat printing?

  Setting up for a letterpress job requires a lot of time and attention to detail. Each color requires its own plate. Colors are printed one at a time and each plate must be set into place by hand, inked, and washed separately. Additionally, papers are chosen carefully to be able to produce the best results for letterpress printing. It is this hands on process, as well as the numbers of colors used and the thicker, softer paper that increases the price. The result, however, is a beautiful, high quality, tactile product.  

Digital printing (also referred to as Flat Printing), refers to methods of printing from a digital-based image directly onto paper. Flat printing allows for a wide array of colors. Unlike letterpress, where ink is actually pressed onto the paper one color at a time, digital printing is flat and can print multiple colors at the same time.