Briar Press is a community of over 30,000 letterpress printers, book artists, and press enthusiasts. The site is dedicated to the preservation of letterpress-era equipment and the art of fine printing. Since its inception in 1994, Briar Press has been operated by the mother-son team of Elizabeth and Eric C Nevin. Eric designs and produces the site when his graduate school (now job) schedule permits. Elizabeth directs daily operations and responds to correspondence. The site is named for Elizabeth’s private press, The Briar Press, established in 1973.

Holiday graphics have always been extraordinary. There is such a wide variety that it is sometimes overwhelming. However we never seem to tire of seeing a new Holiday graphic. The vintage Holiday graphics were truly gorgeous with fine detail and varied topics. We have a selection of vintage Holiday printer’s blocks on our site that includes most of our favorite seasons of the year.

Exquisite early printing plate last used for a decorative calendar in 1910. Very heavy brass frame with foundry cast inserts for the twelve months. Beautiful floral theme on the frame, calendar blocks are foundry alloy with electrotype copper face. Exactly as it was at time of last use, 1910. Brass printing blocks are used for decorative Gold or Gilt printing on book covers. They can also be used for standard letterpress printing. This fine example has a high relief pattern and the center can be replaced with any movable type, to make a custom frame around any topic. The 1910 can be blocked out from accepting ink. This would leave the beautiful floral frame to be printed as desired.