Team Member Spotlight: Dan Flory, pressman
As a long-time employee at Executive Printing, working here for 20 years, Dan loves running the windmill letterpress and keeping his mind active with always doing a different task.
His largest run of envelopes this year was 500,000 copies. Much time and attention to detail go into each project. His favorite project this year was printing the two-color Executive Printing thank you cards on the windmill press. It was a rewarding challenge.
Outside of work, Dan enjoys his daily walks around Lititz and he loves hiking and biking.
Running a windmill letterpress is both an art and a skill. With careful attention to detail and a commitment to craftsmanship, you can produce stunning, high-quality prints that showcase the timeless beauty of letterpress printing.
Heidelberg Windmill: A Printing Icon
The Heidelberg Windmill, named for its unique rotating motion that resembles a windmill, is a platen press that has been a mainstay in print shops since its introduction in the early 20th century. Unlike modern digital printers, the Windmill doesn’t simply deposit ink on paper; it presses inked designs into the surface, creating a distinctive impression that can be both seen and felt. This tactile quality is what makes letterpress printing so special and why it continues to be cherished by designers, artists, and print enthusiasts around the world.
Attention to Detail: The Key to Success
Running a windmill letterpress demands an extraordinary level of attention to detail. Every aspect of the process, from the initial design to the final printed piece, requires careful consideration and adjustment. Here are some of the key elements that make running a Windmill a true craft:
- Precision in Design and Setup: The journey begins with the design, which must be carefully crafted to take full advantage of the letterpress’s capabilities. This design is then transferred onto a printing plate, which is mounted on the press. Aligning the plate correctly is crucial, as even the slightest misalignment can result in uneven prints or misregistration in multi-color jobs.
- Ink and Paper Selection: The choice of ink and paper plays a significant role in the final product. Thick, high-quality paper is preferred for its ability to hold the deep impressions that characterize letterpress printing. The ink must be carefully mixed and applied to ensure even coverage and consistent color throughout the print run.
- Pressure and Registration: Adjusting the pressure between the platen and the printing plate is another critical step. Too much pressure can damage both the paper and the plate, while too little pressure can result in a weak impression. When printing multiple colors, precise registration is essential to ensure that each color aligns perfectly, creating a cohesive and vibrant design.
The Craftsmanship of Letterpress Printing
What sets letterpress printing apart is the craftsmanship involved at every stage. Unlike automated printing processes, running a windmill letterpress requires hands-on involvement and a deep understanding of the machine’s mechanics. Each sheet of paper is fed into the press, where it is carefully aligned and pressed against the inked plate with just the right amount of pressure. This manual process allows for a level of control and customization that is unmatched by modern printers.
Crafting a perfect letterpress print is a process of trial and error, adjusting ink levels, pressure, and alignment until the desired result is achieved. It’s this commitment to perfection, combined with the operator’s skill and experience, that makes letterpress printing truly an art form.
The End Result: A Work of Art
The result of this meticulous process is a printed piece that is more than just ink on paper—it’s a work of art. Each letterpress print carries the mark of craftsmanship, with deep, crisp impressions that add a tactile dimension to the design. Whether it’s a business card, wedding invitation, or limited-edition art print, a letterpress piece is something to be treasured and admired.
Why Choose Letterpress?
In an age of mass production and disposable goods, letterpress printing offers a return to quality, tradition, and artistry. It’s perfect for special projects where you want to make a lasting impression, whether you’re creating a unique invitation, a beautifully crafted business card, or a custom art print. The Windmill letterpress, with its enduring precision and elegance, allows you to create prints that are not only beautiful but also carry the weight of history and craftsmanship. If you’re curious to price out a letterpress project, reach out to us with your project vision. We’d love to see how we can make your unique idea come to life.
Running a windmill letterpress is not just a job—it’s a passion. It’s about taking the time to do things right, paying attention to every detail, and embracing the artistry that comes with the craft. For those who appreciate the tactile beauty of letterpress printing, the Windmill offers a way to create stunning, high-quality prints that stand the test of time. Whether you’re a seasoned printer or just starting out, mastering the Windmill is a journey that rewards dedication, skill, and a love for the printed word.
Contact us for more information.