The story of how our little letterpress found its way to our studio.
I’ve always been fascinated by letterpress printing. The touch and feel of the paper, the impression left behind, the process of mixing ink, and all the little details that make each piece unique. For years, owning a letterpress felt like something that existed only in my dreams. I admired the craft from afar, never imagining I’d actually have the privilege of owning one myself.
Letterpress printing has a rich history dating back to the 15th century, when Johannes Gutenberg helped revolutionize printing in Europe with movable metal type. Over the centuries, printing presses evolved, but the beauty of ink pressed into paper remained.
Chandler & Price became one of the most recognized names in American letterpress printing, manufacturing presses that were used by commercial printers, print shops, and small businesses for generations. Known for their sturdy cast-iron construction and distinctive design, these machines were built to last. Today, many are still in use, lovingly restored and operated by printers who appreciate both their craftsmanship and the timeless art of letterpress.
In December 2025, I came across a Facebook Marketplace listing for a Chandler & Price Pilot press from Grace of Fifth Grace Stationery. Grace had recently upgraded to a much larger Chandler & Price press and was ready to pass her Pilot along to someone new.
I thought the Pilot would be the perfect place to start. It was compact, relatively portable (even though it does weigh about 160lbs), and small enough to fit in my car, unlike the much larger presses that require special equipment to move. It felt like a manageable first step into a craft I’d admired for so long.
Of course, I had about a million questions.
Grace was incredibly sweet, patient, and thoughtful in answering every single one. Knowing she was a fellow stationery designer who had actually used and operated the press made all the difference. Honestly, I’m not sure I would have taken the leap without her generosity and reassurance. Having someone who understood both the machine and the world of stationery made the whole process feel a little less intimidating.
Before the press made its way to me, Grace had purchased it from a gentleman named Harold through Briar Press, a community for letterpress printers and enthusiasts. At the time, the press was extremely rusty and needed plenty of care. Grace took the time to clean and restore the machine, removing years of dust and old ink, sourcing new parts, and getting it running again. She put so much time and effort into bringing it back to life, and I’m so grateful she did.
Below are a few before photos because the transformation is worth seeing.
Now, the little Pilot has found its home in our Southern California studio. Since bringing it home, I’ve spent the past few months gathering supplies, taking classes, learning the ins and outs of the press, and figuring out how to mix ink just right. There has been plenty to learn, but seeing those first impressions come to life on paper has made every bit of it worthwhile.
Our little press is officially up and running, and we love it dearly.
One of my favorite things about letterpress is knowing that these machines, many of which were built generations ago, are still being used and cherished today. There’s something special about giving an old press a new chapter and continuing a tradition of printing by hand. What began as a dream has become a new part of our studio, and I feel so fortunate to carry on a little piece of this history.
I can’t wait to see what we create together.
With love from the press,
Reilly, Little Paper Press
