We find that most people choose to have something letterpress printed for the appeal of its visible impression and tactile nature. In other words, its style, or fashion. However, there are times when it’s the chosen production method simply because it’s the only tool that can do what is required by a certain project.

Such was the case when the talented crew at The Design Farm were creating great work for The Polynesian Cultural Center in Hawaii. Careful thought was put into both the design as well as the materials to be used. A very specific paper was chosen for a presentation folder, a handmade, fibrous stock that looks like it could be made from coconut husks or shredded palm leaves. It was perfect for the job. Unfortunately there was one small drawback; it was far too thick and chunky to be printed by conventional offset and digital presses. Screen printing was an option, but the surface was so rough and uneven that ink coverage would have been so spotty that legibility would have suffered. In the end, letterpress turned out to be one of the only realistic solutions. The unusual paper could be safely hand fed through our Vandercook Universal 1 proof press because of its adjustable bed. The pressure of the process transferred just enough of the design and our photopolymer plates could take the beating from the thick fibers and seeds embedded in the paper, where traditional lead type would have been severely damaged.

The end result was one of a kind. The job may have been driven by necessity of function but it scores bonus fashion points as a result.

This isn’t the first time we’ve printed on uncommon surfaces. Our presses have safely consumed the likes of wood veneer, fabric, and paper bags when special needs have risen. Drop us a line and let us know if you have an idea that you need help producing, we love to help brainstorm possibilities.