Is all calligraphy the same?

Calligraphy is defined as: decorative handwriting or handwritten lettering.

There are some scripts that follow certain rules for spacing and drawing the letterforms, and then there's modern calligraphy. Modern calligraphy is unique to each calligrapher and is a style that is personally developed. Some calligraphers develop "bouncy" styles, while others may have more of a whimsical, airy look.

copperplate calligraphy

Styles that have defined rules and look similar from one calligrapher to another include copperplate / engrosser's script, spencerian, italic, Roundhand, uncial, and so many more. Most calligraphers make these styles their "own" by incorporating special flourishing or using certain variations over another.

example of Italic, left, and Spencerian, right

The next time you're looking for a calligrapher, be sure to ask which script style(s) they specialize in!

Can you print metallic ink colors on letterpress?

Letterpress ink is transparent and must be printed on uncoated cotton paper (or handmade paper from 100% cotton scraps). This results in light absorption. With metallics, there are little flecks that reflect sunlight, creating the shiny effect we are familiar with.

While there are metallic ink colors available, it will not be nearly as shiny as other methods such as foil printing or thermography. Gold letterpress ink in particular tends to have a green undertone.

If you have your heart set on a shiny metallic element, we can always look in to outsourcing foil printing. Another option is calligraphy with metallic ink - I am, after all, a calligrapher! We could print all elements on the press except for the couple's names, which could be hand calligraphed on each page.

With so many different printing options available, it's possible to dream up nearly anything!

What types of paper should be used for letterpress printing?

Letterpress prints on uncoated 100% cotton paper and even handmade paper. Traditional card stock is not recommended for letterpress printing as it is too thin.

The thicker the paper, the deeper the impression can go without bruising the back of the paper. Printing is always a delicate balance of getting a noticeable impression without destroying the back of the paper.

If you are able, opt for double thick paper to get the best result. A cost effective option is to print the main invitation on double thick paper and the rest of the pieces on single thick (or even digitally print).