Samer Bou Saleh rookie

How long have you been printing?

2023

Describe your first encounter with letterpress

I first came across letterpress in 2007 during a typography course at university, where we visited print shops and got to see metal type up close. Fifteen years later, I heard one of those shops was closing and selling their Heidelberg Windmill, so I bought it on a whim, with a vague idea of where it might lead. I’ve been enjoying the process ever since.

Where did you learn?

I am still in the process of learning. The printer I bought my windmill from, a master printer with more than 50 years of experience, assisted me in my first print. And I always ask fellow printers for advice and tips.

What super power would you like to have?

Peace of mind.

Do you prefer to work alone or with others?

I enjoy both. Most of my design work is done alone, however recently I have been enjoying collaborating with artists and designers on personal projects.

What do you most value in your friends?

Their ability to listen to my rants without running away.

When do your best ideas occur to you?

When I'm bored.

What tool do you use more often than any other?

10mm wrench. Calligraphy pens.

What books are currently on your nightstand?

Ways of Seeing - John Berger

If you have your own shop, what equipment do you own?

Heidelberg Windmill (Black Ball 1957).
5 sets of Arabic metal Type, and 5 sets of Latin metal type.

If you could change one thing about your shop, what would it be?

I would acquire a Vandercook Proof press with a lot more wood and metal type, specifically Arabic type, to have more flexibility with manual printing and be able to print bigger sizes, and smaller editions.

When and where are you the happiest?

Riding my motorcycle through the mountains.

What is your greatest fear/worry?

Not being able to do the things I love.

What do you think is useful about what you make?

It makes me happy :)

What’s your day job?

Graphic Designer, with a focus in branding and Arabic lettering.

Do you use any other techniques or media besides letterpress?

Printmaking, alternative and darkroom photography.