Finding the perfect paper has been an adventure, that ended with the same paper I started with. There is nothing like cotton paper. It behaves a little like fabric. It`s temperamental and moody. I love it!
So I decided to play with the Crane`s. This magnificent paper is not only a staple of any letterpress cabinet, but part of the history of printing itself. So I decided to observe how it behaved with different pressures and inks.
I am partial to any paper weighting 220 or more as it grooves and presses better than any other paper weight. The tooth is flat enough to absorb ink but rough enough to give the piece character.
This sample is 110 lbs. on perfect white paper. If you start from the top, I used the most pressure versus the bottom one, where I only pressed it hard enough to ink the first layer. As pretty as that is nothing beats this.
The Pillow Effect
I love this. There are Photoshop filters that try to reproduce this effect. 220 lbs. paper indents and groves just right with just a little pressure. It`s one of its best qualities, but also makes it temperamental. If anything touches it, it will react to it. It also picks up dirt like nobody`s business! Swifers should be made out of it!
Here you can see a little better the differences between paper thickness a bit better. Though 220 is pricier, to me is so worth it. Enjoy!!
I make bespoke letterpress designs for weddings, parties and business and personal stationery. Let`s design your unique stationery together. Contact me today!
Momisodes
February 10, 2010 at 9:39 PM (15 years ago)I can see why you like the heavier weight paper. It looks luscious.
Paulette Designs Inc.
February 17, 2010 at 2:40 AM (15 years ago)Well well…nice to see you took your old friends advice at last and love Cranes as much as I do !! he he Nothing is better and your beautiful new work shows how exquisite it is ! Did I say how much I love your new work ?!! xoxo, paulette