The Smallprint Company
Letterpress printing, design and illustration
Contact
Derby
Derbyshire
DE1 1JF
About
Combining a love of print, typography and design the aim of the Smallprint Company studio is to explore the world of traditional letterpress print, using antique presses, original type, beautiful papers and hand mixed inks.
The aims of the Smallprint Company are to preserve the heritage craft of Letterpress by collecting and restoring type, machinery and ephemera, running courses and outreach workshops, and continuing to develop skills and knowledge of both the process and history of the development of print.
Chris and Hannah Barker met at art college back in the 90s, where we discovered a shared love of print and a burning ambition to run a print studio. The final year of University was spent working with RGAP (Research Group for Artist Publications) led by Martin Rogers. This was an introduction to many printmaking and bookbinding techniques, often blurring the lines between traditional and contemporary practices. It was also the inspiration to set up a studio practice of their own.
After graduation, thoughts turned to work. The interest in print and publishing led to careers that would help pave the way to forming the Smallprint Company. Following several years in the print and publishing industries respectively, they finally purchased their first press, an Adana 8x5.
Chris is a printer and designer with 30 years experience in the print and graphics industry. After studying in Fine Art he gained hands on experience in the print trade, from print finishing, pre-press, design and gaining an apprenticeship as a lithographic press operator (where he won the Hawthorn Rigby Apprentice of the Year award).
Chris has continued to study the history and techniques of design, typography and printmaking and is an extremely knowledgeable and enthusisatic tutor. Chris makes the process of letterpress engaging and interesting for all participants in the workshops and courses.
Mini craft gallery
