Another obsever, Erik Spiekermann, described as a “world renowned typographer who himself has returned to letter roots, said that “Digital kids are sick of sitting in front of screens pushing buttons all day,” He added, “Indeed, it is mainly graphic designers, followed by fine artists and illustrators, who are propelling this revival.”

Letterpress seen as the medium in which to create

Angie Butler from the University of West of England who herself is a book artist, commented: “Among artists, the book is increasingly seen as an interesting physical medium in which to create.”

Vost, who for thirty years operated an bookshop in Amsterdam, remarked in closing:   “It’s incredible how in each country there are young people making books,” which has morphed into  an “avalanche of print products, because once you have a website you want the real thing.”

I don’t want to leave anyone with the impression that letterpress printing is not without a learning curve and not without hours of frustration bent over a press to make it create the full beauty of which is is capable.  That is, I have more than once [to my regret] kicked my press because I didn’t know why it was misbehaving.  But if you slug along with patience and a continuing desire to master the craft, you will find  yourself immersed in a rewarding craft that will teach that work can be fascinatingly enjoyable.

For a personal look at letterpress book publishing, you may want to look at the story of Elva Cowdery and her mission to publish her book of poetry, Possible Grace.

Until later . . .

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