Letterpress vs Digital: Does It Really Matter?

If you’re dreaming of luxury wedding invitations that make a lasting impression (literally), you’ve probably come across letterpress printing. But is it the right fit for everything on your stationery list?

In this guide, we’re walking through what to letterpress, what to print digitally, and how to strike the perfect balance between beauty and budget.

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What Is Letterpress Printing?

Letterpress is a centuries-old printing method using a custom plate that presses your design into thick cotton paper. At Someday Press, every piece is printed one at a time on a vintage press (ours is from 1913, and her name is Maddie!).

Best For:

• Simple designs with fixed text
• Minimalist styles that highlight texture
• High-end wedding suites

Pros:

• Deep impression for tactile elegance
• Artisan, timeless look
• Luxurious feel on thick cotton paper

Limitations:

• Best with one or two colors
• No gradients or photographic images
• Costs more than digital printing

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What Is Digital Printing?

Digital printing is the modern, full-color printing method you’re familiar with—quick, versatile, and perfect for vibrant designs.

Best For:

• Items with lots of variable information
• Full-color images or illustrations
• Wedding day signage or programs

Pros:

• Fast turnaround
• Great for watercolor or photographs
• Lower cost for large or variable runs

Limitations:

• No texture or deep impression
• Less luxurious feel than letterpress

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What Should You Letterpress?

We recommend letterpress for the pieces you want to show off, save, or frame—anything guests will touch or photograph.

• Invitation Card – It sets the tone and often becomes a keepsake
• Details Card – For minimalist layouts or paired with a map
• Menu Cards – Especially for small guest counts or identical meals
• Menus (if personalized) – His/hers menu options, allergies, etc.
• Thank You Cards – Elegant and memorable when you’re ordering in bulk

If it’s a hero piece—it deserves letterpress.

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What Should Be Digitally Printed?

Digital is ideal for pieces that need customization or that guests won’t keep after the wedding:

• Place Cards & Escort Cards – Each one has unique names (hand calligraphy is a beautiful option)
• Programs – Lots of text, variable timelines
• Table Numbers – Functional, not focal
• Guest Envelopes-digital printing is recommended with variable printing (all the envelopes will have different addresses)
• Any pieces with watercolor or photography

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Hybrid Printing: The Best of Both Worlds

The best solution? A custom mix.

At Someday Press, we help most of our couples combine both:
→ Letterpress the statement pieces
→ Digitally print the practical ones

It keeps your suite luxurious, but respects your budget.

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Not Sure What to Choose? We’ll Help.

We’ll walk you through every decision—what to print, how to word it, and which paper feels most like “you.”

Start by browsing our semi-custom wedding invitation collection or inquire here for a custom design experience.

We’ll make sure every piece feels intentional, elevated, and effortless.