A printing style I frequently recommend to brides who love a luxurious, organic vibe is letterpress printing. Letterpress is pretty self-explanatory once you learn a little about it – letters or designs that are raised or carved are coated with ink and pressed into paper, creating the depth and feel that the style is known for. Pretty fascinating – and just plain pretty. I’m excited to be able to offer this invitation style, including calligraphy elements, to brides in State College!
For the above invitation, I wanted the calligraphy to stand out and a simple, elegant typeface and design. I also identified the exact Pantone color for the ink, which I specified to my awesome letterpress printer, Elefant Press.
Paper selection is important for letterpress printing, as its weight determines the feel of your finished invitation. I recommend the classic Crane’s Lettra. Basically synonymous with bridal letterpress, the thick, fibrous paper creates a luscious look when pressed. The above suite used Crane’s Lettra 220 in Pearl White. The 220 is almost a chipboard-level of thickness, but the 110 still provides a beautiful effect. All based on personal preference! Word to the wise: Crane’s Lettra envelopes are notoriously difficult to calligraph. If you’re attempting a DIY, I recommend taking it very slow, using an ink that flows easily and bringing a glass of wine along for the ride.
You can really take letterpress to the next level with gold foil, a blind deboss of a design along the edges of an invitation, or applying watercolor to the paper before it is pressed with ink.
Custom letterpress invitations are such a lovely way to get your Pennsylvania wedding or event started off in the right manner. The beautiful feel of the piece will be stunning for your guests!