Classic Field Notes memo book with a pen, ready for daily notes and ideas, celebrating the art of tactile writing in a digital age.

Embrace the Craft: Field Notes United States of Letterpress Edition

In our increasingly digital world, where screens dominate our daily interactions and information flows at lightning speed, there remains an undeniable, primal joy in the tactile act of putting pen to paper. Whether it’s sketching a sudden idea, jotting down a crucial note, or meticulously working through an equation, a personal memo book offers a unique sanctuary for thought and creativity. For years, Field Notes has masterfully championed this enduring tradition, crafting exquisite memo books that have become indispensable everyday carry items for thousands.

Close-up of a Field Notes memo book, showcasing its distinct cover design and quality paper for handwritten notes and creative expressions.

The Enduring Legacy of Field Notes and Aaron Draplin

As a long-time admirer of Field Notes founder and acclaimed designer, Aaron Draplin, I’ve always been captivated by the brand’s commitment to quality, utility, and timeless design. Draplin’s vision for simple, functional, and beautifully crafted notebooks resonates deeply with those who appreciate American manufacturing and a no-nonsense approach to design. The brand has cultivated a loyal following, turning utilitarian objects into cherished personal tools that inspire creativity and organization.

Having coveted a set of Field Notes for years, my excitement was palpable upon receiving their highly anticipated “United States of Letterpress” edition. This special release is more than just a collection of memo books; it’s a vibrant tribute to the historic art form of letterpress printing and the talented artists who keep this intricate craft alive and thriving.

Celebrating the Art of Letterpress Printing

Letterpress printing, an artisanal technique that predates digital printing by centuries, involves pressing inked type or images onto paper, creating a distinctive debossed texture. Each impression carries the weight of history and the unique touch of the craftsman. It’s a method that demands precision, patience, and a deep understanding of materials, resulting in prints with unparalleled character and depth. The “United States of Letterpress” edition celebrates this intricate art, bringing together diverse talents from across the country to showcase the breadth and beauty of modern letterpress design.

Jimmy Diresta: A Champion of Vintage Letterpress

My understanding and appreciation for letterpress deepened significantly after an in-depth conversation with the renowned craftsman and artist, Jimmy Diresta, on the Tool Crave podcast. Jimmy possesses an extraordinary passion for vintage letterpress machines, dedicating himself to finding and meticulously restoring these dormant mechanical marvels. He often uncovers presses that have been silent for 80 years or more, bringing them back to life with expert precision and a reverence for their historical significance. His efforts are a testament to the enduring appeal of mechanical craftsmanship and the tangible beauty it can produce. Jimmy generously shared some of his recent letterpress prints with me, each piece a stunning demonstration of the craft and his dedication.

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Following my insightful discussion with Jimmy, I developed an even deeper reverence for the immense time, specialized knowledge, and significant investment these dedicated letterpress artists pour into their craft. Each unique print is not merely a piece of paper but a labor of love, a connection to history, and a testament to unwavering artistic passion.

An open Field Notes memo book from the United States of Letterpress edition, revealing its graph paper interior and unique flysheet with artist information.

A Collective Canvas: The United States of Letterpress Designers

This special Field Notes set is a curated gallery of contemporary letterpress talent, featuring covers designed by an impressive roster of artists and studios from various corners of the U.S. Each artist brings their unique aesthetic and regional influence to the project, resulting in a vibrant and diverse collection that truly embodies the spirit of American craftsmanship. The edition is thoughtfully divided into three distinct packs, each presenting a fresh perspective on letterpress artistry:

Pack A: Midwest & West Coast Innovations

Genghis Kern, Denver, CO: Contributed two distinct and innovative designs, showcasing their unique approach to typography and imagery.
Full-Circle Press, Nevada City, CA: Offered one beautifully crafted design, reflecting the meticulous detail inherent in traditional letterpress.
Mama’s Sauce, Orlando, FL: Brought two vibrant and eye-catching designs, adding a splash of Florida’s dynamic creative energy to the collection.

Three Field Notes memo books from Pack A of the United States of Letterpress edition, displaying unique letterpress designs from Genghis Kern, Full-Cirle Press, and Mama’s Sauce.

Pack B: Southern Charm & Pacific Northwest Flair

Brad Vetter, Louisville, KY: Presented two captivating designs, known for his bold and experimental letterpress work.
Springtide Press, Tacoma, WA: Contributed two artful designs, embodying the thoughtful and organic aesthetic often found in the Pacific Northwest.
Ben Blount, Evanston, IL: Added two powerful and socially conscious designs, using the medium of letterpress to convey meaningful messages.

Three Field Notes memo books from Pack B of the United States of Letterpress edition, featuring diverse designs by Brad Vetter, Springtide Press, and Ben Blount.

Pack C: Heart of America & Windy City Craft

Erin Beckloff, Springboro, OH: Showcased two intricate designs, highlighting her expertise in both historical and contemporary letterpress techniques.
Rick Griffith, Denver, CO: Offered two distinct designs, known for his sophisticated and often minimalist approach to printmaking.
Starshaped Press, Chicago, IL: Provided one exceptionally detailed design, representing the rich tradition of letterpress in a major American city.

Three Field Notes memo books from Pack C of the United States of Letterpress edition, displaying unique letterpress art from Erin Beckloff, Rick Griffith, and Starshaped Press.

The Creative Process: A Symphony of Paper and Ink

Field Notes orchestrated this extraordinary edition with a clear vision: to celebrate the individuality of each letterpress artist while maintaining a cohesive aesthetic. To achieve this, Field Notes provided each participating print shop with a different vibrant color of Pop-Tone cover stock, sourced from the esteemed French Paper Company. Furthermore, all artists were instructed to use the same two signature ink colors: Rhubine Red and Process Blue. This constraint, rather than limiting creativity, challenged the designers to explore how these specific colors and paper textures could be manipulated within their unique artistic styles. The results are a testament to the immense creativity within the letterpress community, offering a collection as varied and engaging as the artists themselves. Adding another layer of delight, several artists went the extra mile, producing two distinct designs that are randomly inserted into the packs, ensuring an even greater element of surprise and collectibility for enthusiasts.

Beyond the captivating covers, each memo book in the “United States of Letterpress” edition includes a specially designed flysheet. These flysheets, printed on high-quality Finch Paper by Skylab Letterpress in Kansas City, Missouri, are thoughtfully wrapped around 48 pages of Field Notes’ signature graph paper. Each flysheet serves as an informative guide, featuring details about the cover designer and printer. Moreover, it carries a historical touch: a reproduction of a border from the Bay Psalms Book (1640), a pivotal piece of American printing history as the first book known to be printed in the American colonies, specifically in what is now Cambridge, Massachusetts. This thoughtful inclusion connects the contemporary artistry with the deep roots of printing in America.

An arrangement of multiple Field Notes memo books from the United States of Letterpress edition, showcasing the varied designs and colors of the letterpress covers.

Field Notes’ Vision: Honoring Tradition, Embracing Modernity

As Jim Coudal, one of the driving forces behind Field Notes, aptly stated, “Everyone here at Field Notes is a longtime fan of letterpress. There is so much history and tradition in each hand-printed piece, and we wanted to honor that while also showcasing the phenomenal work that modern practitioners of the craft are producing.” This statement perfectly encapsulates the essence of this special edition. It’s a respectful nod to the rich heritage of printing while simultaneously celebrating the contemporary innovations and artistic expressions that define the modern letterpress movement. Field Notes successfully bridges the past and present, offering a tangible link to a timeless craft.

This remarkable Fall 2020 Quarterly Release was made possible through the invaluable cooperation of two distinguished American paper mills: Finch Paper of Glens Falls, New York, and The French Paper Company of Niles, Michigan. Coudal expressed profound gratitude for their partnership, noting, “Field Notes has had a long relationship with both of these American mills, and we’re grateful that they joined us in celebrating the U.S. letterpress community.” Their commitment to quality and American manufacturing perfectly aligns with the ethos of Field Notes and the spirit of this collaborative project.

A stack of Field Notes United States of Letterpress memo books, highlighting the unique textures and colors of the letterpress covers.

Unlock Exclusivity: The Quarterly Edition Series & Subscription

The Fall 2020 United States of Letterpress limited edition set is a shining example of Field Notes’ celebrated Quarterly Edition Series. These limited releases are highly sought after by collectors and everyday users alike, offering unique themes and designs that keep the brand fresh and exciting. This particular edition is available individually, allowing you to select your preferred pack, or as part of a year-long subscription. An annual subscription is truly the best way to experience the full breadth of Field Notes’ creativity, as it includes two packs of each quarterly release throughout the year, along with exclusive bonus items accompanying each edition. For the “United States of Letterpress” release, subscribers were delighted to receive all three combinations of this special collection, ensuring they experienced every unique design.

An annual subscription is priced at a convenient $110, which includes shipping within the U.S. For international customers, a one-time shipping charge of $20 covers the entire year of deliveries, making it accessible for fans worldwide. Subscribers who embark on their Field Notes journey with the “United States of Letterpress” edition will also look forward to receiving the Winter 2020, Spring 2021, and Summer 2021 Quarterly Editions, providing a continuous stream of fresh, inspiring stationery. A Field Notes subscription is not merely a purchase; it’s an investment in inspiration and a perfect, thoughtful gift for the artist, writer, designer, or creative auteur in your life who appreciates both form and function.

Detail shot of a Field Notes memo book from the United States of Letterpress edition, highlighting the letterpress texture and vibrant ink colors on the cover.

Multiple Field Notes memo books from the United States of Letterpress edition, laid out to display the variety of artistic designs.

A single Field Notes memo book from the United States of Letterpress series, with a focus on its unique cover art and high-quality construction.

Close-up of a Field Notes letterpress cover, showcasing the tactile quality of the printing method and artistic design.

A Field Notes memo book from the United States of Letterpress edition, held open to reveal its pages, emphasizing its functionality and artistic appeal.

More Than Just a Notebook: A Piece of American Artistry

The “United States of Letterpress” edition from Field Notes is a brilliant testament to the enduring appeal of craftsmanship and the vibrant community of letterpress artists across America. It’s not merely a set of memo books; it’s a celebration of heritage, a canvas for modern design, and an invitation to connect with the tangible beauty of hand-printed art. Each notebook is a small, portable piece of history and art, designed to inspire your daily musings and grandest ideas.

Discover the unique blend of tradition and innovation. Elevate your everyday carry with a Field Notes “United States of Letterpress” edition, and experience the unparalleled joy of writing on a canvas crafted with passion and precision.