List of whats needed to get started?

Dolmen
on 20 Jul 25 (11:27)

Hi Folks,

I believe I’ll soon have my first press, its an older desktop machine thats almost ready for some work.

Over the past few years ive approached several printers that use older equipment for this advice most never responded, so as im unable to find the info, im now asking on here please.

I know next to nothing and have avoided buying stuff incase its not correct, but i will soon be needing to get at least the basics gathered up so i can make a start. Ive done searches looking for classes but theres nothing available that i can find.

If the good folks on here would be so kind as to give me a basic list from A - Z of what they think id need to get started on business cards and greetings cards id really appreciate the input.

What ink?
What cards, precut?
What type?
What cleaner?
What other equipment is necessary?

I dont understand whats been done with modern materials or where i can buy ready made blocks for greetings cards or special orders for business cards, if anyone can share links in the UK even if its just so i can get a bit of enlightenment on the topic.

Thanks in advance

Kenneth Burnley
on 20 Jul 25 (12:32)

Whereabouts in Britain are you based?

AdLibPress
on 20 Jul 25 (13:08)

First thing you will need most is experience. If you don’t have that the equipment won’t substitute for it. Self-teaching printing will lead to mistakes that can both destroy your equipment and your attitude. You don’t say what you have already done to prepare yourself, but what you say does provide an answer: not much. Do your homework before you try to sell any of your printing.

Dolmen
on 20 Jul 25 (16:54)

Hi Kenneth, im in North Ireland

AdLibPress
on 20 Jul 25 (17:35)

Cork Printmakers in Cork could help you learn how to use your press, though I guess they are not in Northern Ireland.

frank hemmings
on 21 Jul 25 (06:42)

Hi, not sure if your press is going to be an Adana but there is an instruction PDF on
https://drukwerkindemarge.org/download/documentatie/adana_8x5_manual.pdf
The British Letterpress site has a list of suppliers for various associated materials.
Also for members the British Printing Society has publications for loan from their Library.

Dolmen
on 21 Jul 25 (09:20)

Thanks Frank, yes ive read lots of articles that give loads of good info, but its getting a good basic list on consumables that i can look out for to get started and then add various type and other equipment as i progress.
My press will be an older American press if all comes together…

The Adana instructions will still be a useful guide, thank you.

Steve Varvaro
on 21 Jul 25 (16:24)

Great, Welcome aboard.
You may want to reach out to Lisa at LymeBayPress.com.
She can get you all set up and she gives classes.
Good Luck,
Steve

Dolmen
on 23 Jul 25 (02:57)

Thanks Steve, I’ll go check out her site