How Do You Letterpress Print Using Photopolymer Plates?
Letterpress printing is currently experiencing a resurgence due to photopolymer plates. Printers and designers started experimenting printing with photopolymer plates in the 1980’s, and the technique is being used by more people than ever due to the accessibility of graphic design software. In this article, I will cover the basics of sending out for plates, and printing. I will save plate making, designing, and in-depth printing techniques for other articles. This article will also assume the reader knows basic letterpress terms and techniques. Create, or upload artwork into graphic design program like Adobe Illustrator or Photoshop. Keep the dimensions of the press, base, and final product in mind when designing. Also, consider the strengths and weaknesses of letterpress. For example, fine lines generally print better than floods. Floods and fine lines on the same plate usually are difficult to print. Remember that each color will require it’s own plate. Find a company that specialize
