Illustration Art Prints & Letterpress Stationery
Who I am:
I operate Paper de Pappas, my letterpress studio, in Pittsburgh, PA. Owning my own letterpress has been a dream of mine since I took my first book making class back in art school. Aside from operating my studio, I work as an editorial illustrator making bright, playful illustrations for a range of clients.
About Letterpress Printing:
A letterpress is a big ol' hunk of cast iron with an incredible history. It's invention helped shape our modern world and democratized knowledge with its proliferation. My press is a Golding Pearl, known for it's small size and "portability" (though it still weighs around 700lbs!!). My press was made in 1895, and was refurbished by a friend, it amazes me that it continues to be functional despite its age. I operate it with a foot treadle, similar to an antique sewing machine, and therefore it requires no power other than the motion of my leg. It's a joy to print on, and an honor to preserve this powerful piece of history.
About my values:
1) It’s important for me to contribute to people fighting to make our world a more just and equitable place on a national level, and here in Pittsburgh. I make a monthly donation of $20 split between the ACLU and SisTersPGH (an amazing resource center that provides a range of services to transgender people of color in Pittsburgh). As of June 2020, I'm committed to donate an additional 10% of all sales from my shop to SistersPGH on top of my monthly $10. Please contact me if you would like to see documentation.
2) I am also committed to making my shop as eco-friendly as possible. This is an evolving effort that I hope to continually improve upon. Currently my goal is to create as little waste as possible. I do not use single-use plastic in my shop, with the exception of occasional cellophane bags for moisture sensitive prints. These cellophane bags are re-sealable so I encourage shoppers to re-use them. I make mailers from broken down cardboard boxes, and will re-use mailers from other vendors.
3) My prices are set taking into consideration that my products are handmade, crafted with care, and my materials are thoughtfully sourced. The goal of my Etsy shop is to create an ethical and sustainable business and my prices reflect that.
Follow along:
Paper de Pappas on Etsy: etsy.com/shop/paperdepappas
Paper de Pappas on Instagram: @paperdepappas
My artist profile on Instagram: @sophiamariepappas
My illustration website: sophiamariepappas.com
