is it worth it??

I’m looking to purchase letterpress equipment. I found a Vandercook (SP15) that includes a fair amount of hand set lead type, some wood type, quoins, composing sticks, furniture, lead, ornaments, ink, solvents, etc. for 6K. I am wondering if that is a good deal or not. The prices I’ve found online are all over the board and since I am new to this medium, I don’t know if it’s a good investment or not.

Anyone have any perspective or advice to share?

Log in to reply   3 replies so far

Hello llongbrake,

You need to be more specific about what is being offered. The condition of the press is a major consideration. Also, the value of type would depend on the particular faces, whether there are “runs” of type (the same face in different sizes), the size of the fonts (how many of each character), and the condition. Is the type in cases in a cabinet? Also you don’t say how many quoins and composing sticks, what sizes there are, and their condition. As for the furniture, would it be steel, aluminum, or wood, and is there a complete set in a cabinet? If you’re willing to take everything without the seller having to pack or ship anything, that should be worth quite a bit to him or her. If you could provide more specific information we could be of more help.

Barbara

A good deal hinges on what type of work you plan to do. The Vandercook is good for some things, but if you plan to print small cards or stationery, a platen press would be a better choice (and a lot less money).

is it in portland?