You’ve likely seen beautifully printed materials that looked great in a mock-up but felt underwhelming in real life. That moment of disconnect often comes down to how the piece feels, not just how it looks. Letterpress helps close that gap.
Letterpress printing takes time and that’s what gives it value. Each piece reflects focused attention to craft, layout, and finish. While digital print is quick and clean, letterpress invites you to slow down and notice the details. In an age of digital downloads, mass production, and instant results, letterpress offers something more deliberate, more tactile, and more meaningful.
The feel of an impression on thick paper. The slight variation in each pull of the press. The focus on layout and detail. These qualities aren’t outdated. They’re part of what makes printed materials feel more intentional and lasting. Because even in a digital-first world, physical connection still matters.
How does letterpress printing work and why does it make your merchandise feel better?
Letterpress printing works by using raised plates or type to press inked designs into thick paper or board. You can feel the impression with your fingers.
That’s what makes letterpress different. In a market full of mass-produced packaging, cards, and tags, this method adds texture, presence, and care. It gives the merchandise a sense of care and quality that sets it apart.
What are the benefits of letterpress printing today?
Letterpress stands out because people notice how it feels before they see what it says. The depth of the impression, the way the paper responds — it engages more than the eyes. That sensory quality creates a physical connection that digital print rarely achieves.
When someone runs their fingers over a letterpress card or invitation, they feel the impression. That physical feedback carries a sense of care and intention. For brands that focus on storytelling, heritage, or luxury, it reinforces the message before a word is read.
It reflects the kind of craftsmanship and care that modern mass production often lacks. Choosing this method sends a message about attention to detail and intentionality., when the goal is to elevate the message through material and technique.
When should you use letterpress printing instead of other methods?
Letterpress printing works best when the physical finish helps reinforce the message you’re sending. It’s ideal for pieces that aren’t just meant to inform, but to be kept, noticed, and remembered.
Some examples include:
- Business cards that create a meaningful first contact
- Wedding invitations where sentiment and formality matter
- Art prints that blend visual beauty with tactile quality
- Certificates or awards that represent credibility and value
We’ve seen it used by craft spirits brands, boutique stationery companies, and heritage retailers who want every detail to tell a story. It also plays a growing role in luxury packaging. For brands where packaging is part of the customer experience, the texture and weight of letterpress can elevate perceived value.
What’s the difference between digital and letterpress printing?
Digital printing is fast, cost-efficient, and great for short runs or customisation. It’s perfect for brochures, flyers, and everyday marketing materials. But when your piece needs to feel premium, digital alone might fall short.
Letterpress complements digital print by adding physical depth and inviting longer engagement. That texture changes how people interact with your materials by encouraging them to hold on, turn it over, and take notice. Letterpress delivers a more deliberate, physical result. It’s what you reach for when the finish matters just as much as the content.
Here’s how they compare:
- Digital: sits on the surface, fast turnaround, flexible and modern
- Letterpress: pressed into the paper, slower process, tangible and timeless
Choose it when your piece needs to carry weight both visually and physically.
Want your packaging or print to leave a lasting impression? Explore your options with our expert team.
Is letterpress printing sustainable?
Yes, especially when used with responsibly sourced materials. Most letterpress studios use:
- Cotton or tree-free papers
- Recyclable and low-VOC inks
- Manual or low-energy presses
It’s a slower process by nature, which also encourages thoughtful production and less waste.
What affects the cost of letterpress printing?
In a world of endless digital noise, the weight of something well-made matters.
Letterpress printing slows things down with intention, giving every piece more presence and weight. While it’s not the cheapest option, that’s often the point. Costs can vary depending on:
- Quantity and run size
- Material and ink choices
- Custom plate setup and design complexity. This process involves more time and hands-on skill, which makes it more premium than digital options. However, for short runs or standout pieces, the added cost often pays for itself in brand perception and user experience.
Can letterpress be combined with foil or embossing?
Yes. Letterpress pairs well with other print methods, especially when you want to create contrast or layered effects. Common combinations include:
- Foil stamping: to add shine and dimension
- Blind embossing: for a raised design without ink
- Digital printing: for colourful backgrounds or variable data
Combining techniques allows designers to create multi-sensory experiences that stand out and feel intentional.
How does letterpress printing compare to modern printing for sustainability?
In many ways, yes. Traditional methods like this use lower-energy presses and encourage thoughtful production. When paired with recycled or tree-free papers and low-VOC inks, the environmental impact is relatively low. The durability of these prints also reduces the need for frequent reprints, adding to their sustainable edge.
Why letterpress printing still holds value
It turns a piece of paper into something people want to hold onto. Something they turn over in their hands. Something they keep.
If your message is worth remembering, this method is still one of the most effective and beautiful ways to deliver it.
If your brand values quality in every detail, our presses help you deliver it. Talk to us about building your next standout piece with letterpress.
Frequently asked questions
Can this process be done on recycled paper?
Yes. Many cotton-based or tree-free recycled stocks are ideal. Their softness holds impressions beautifully while supporting sustainability goals.
Is this technique only suitable for vintage styles?
No. While it’s rooted in tradition, many designers use it for clean, modern layouts that feel premium without feeling old-fashioned.
What types of ink work best?
Oil-based and rubber-based inks are common. Many studios now offer low-VOC or soy-based options as well.
Want your next project to leave a lasting impression?
Talk to our team about how to bring your ideas to life with letterpress.