Kerngirl

Since my high school job as a paste-up artist for a local newspaper, I knew that printing and I would be life-long friends. The smell of ink, the feel of a cold press sheet in my hands and the rhythmic “ka-chunk” keep me coming back for more.

After two decades of designing for print I decided it was time to get out from behind the computer and to start doing the printing.

In 2011, I purchased my first printing press, a Damon and Peets 6×10 Treadle Press (Favorite). Manufactured in New York City between 1880 & 1890, the history of this press is fascinating. Since then I have been lucky enough to have acquired access to a Vandercook proofing press and have added a Sigwalt Chicago #11 and a Kelsey 5x8 to my collection.

After almost 10 years of operating my presses in Lowell’s famed Western Avenue Studios, I have moved to Nova Studios in North Chelmsford, Mass. to be part of a new professional community of artisans.

I work primarily with salvaged lead type and lead blocks; hand-setting type, the way it was done when my press was first forged. With modern technology and polymers, I can also create custom stationery and  invitations. An educator at heart, I also offer small studio workshops and private instruction for those interested in learning the history and art of letterpress printing.