I was introduced to letterpress printing in 1961 when my brother had a small printing shop in our garage for a short period of time. I was only 11 years old but he showed me the basics and the "ink was in my blood". I continued to learn all I could during my high school years, working with a Kelsey 5x8 press and a few cases of type, and after graduating was able to start my own business. In 2005 I retired from the commercial world of printing but kept all my letterpress equipment. I currently do only traditional letterpress printing utilizing my vast collection accumulated over the years. I have over 500 fonts of metal type, drawers of engravings and cuts, and several platen presses including a Heidelberg Windmill. I currently do most of my printing on a 1912-era treadle powered Damon & Peets National, 6x10. Although I admire the work being done by many letterpress printers today doing their own designing, I prefer to stay with traditional letterpress, working with what I have at hand.

Over the years, each of my three daughters learned a bit of letterpress printing, often running the press to get jobs done. Although they did not pick up an interest in the craft, I am very pleased that one of my grandsons is currently learning from me. He was quick to learn the layout of the type case and typesetting as well as locking up forms and running the press. Hopefully his interest will continue.

I find great pleasure spending time in my shop on a daily basis. It is fun to create new and useful printed pieces using things I have collected over the past 59 years. I am always anxious to do custom printing on request for those who have an appreciation for the letterpress printed piece.