Letterpress Type in Wooden Cases

Wooden type cases cover the old print shop table, their shallow compartments holding metal blocks in many sizes. An ink roller sits on a dark slab behind them, while composing sticks, paper scraps and worn handles fill the gaps. The type catches small silver highlights against the walnut and black ink. Nothing is arranged perfectly, which gives the bench a useful lived-in rhythm.

The metal blocks are easiest to sort by height and edge before worrying about their faces. Some compartments are almost empty, leaving pale wood around the remaining pieces. Ink makes broad dark patches on the roller and slab, while paper adds quieter cream sections. Follow the case dividers, tool handles and wood grain to keep the repeated rectangles from blending together.