Category: General discussion
Later topic: Wir-o-binding
Earlier topic: Heavy ink coverage on a Vandercook

Polymer plates?

(I am a beginner, so if you think what I am asking for is actually not what I need, feel free to tell me).
Hi, I am looking to do some printing that includes traditional metal type but also some illustration of my own design. I am guessing that what I am looking for is someone that can take a digital image (InDesign or Illustrator) and make a polymer plate for me to use. Do you have any recommendations? I live in the UK, but willing to pay for shipment from the US if need be.

While I am asking questions - I am guessing that is also the process used to create stationery like this? (attached image from PaperWheel, who sell on Etsy. Just giving it as an example). Is there another way of doing it? I am asking both for hand illustrations/working with photographs and also digitally created images. I have done a little bit of work with photo-etching, but was wondering what the other alternative are.
Thanks!

image: il_570xN.160951772.jpg

il_570xN.160951772.jpg

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Added - I looked in the yellow pages, checking that all out too :)

Hand illustrated images, calligraphy, Illustrator files can all be used when using photopolymer for printing. In some instances you’ll need a scanner if your work is on paper. There are some production issues when preparing files for photopolymer so ask your service provider.

You should pick up a book by Gerald Lange, Printing digital type on the hand-operated flatbed cylinder press. This is an excellent book and Gerald goes into detail about choosing a digital typeface for photopolymer output and other very helpful hints.

The image you have shown can easily be accomplished, however, the pee pod image carries all the weight and is heavier than the type and carrot and should be opened up a bit more on the shell.

Casey
Inky Lips Letterpress.

There is no reason to ship plates from the US. Someone will process plates closer to you, though I do not have a name for you. Photopolymer is used in flexographic printing, which is used to print packaging. If you have a graphic supplier for inks and other things, try asking them for a referral?