A Bigger Igloo for Igloo Letterpress
Igloo Letterpress, Worthington's favorite letterpress and bookbinding shop, has officially opened its doors at a new location in the former Zettler Hardware building on High Street. In addition to doubling their space, the new location makes it possible to operate the entire business under one roof.
Founded in 2009 by Allison Chapman, Igloo Letterpress is not your average print studio. The shop uses antique printing press equipment inherited from Chapman’s grandfather and seeks to honor the history of letterpress while blending in the latest digital and analog technology.
Igloo Letterpress enjoys a thriving retail business, thanks to its online Etsy shop, in-house custom creations like wedding invitations and business cards, and the new gift shop, Swoonful Gifts, which features the work of several local artists. In addition, the new space makes it possible for Igloo professionals to share their knowledge and love of letterpress through classes and workshops.
“We’re thrilled to finally have the whole business consolidated in one place,” said Igloo Letterpress owner Allison Chapman. “As our staff and offerings continue to grow, we’re excited to be able to expand our production and to invite the community to take part in our classes and tours.”
Thanks to the Community
While Chapman’s staff, including Studio Director Beth Dekker, has been incredibly instrumental in the growth and expansion of the business, Chapman has a long list of family, friends and community members to thank as well. This past summer Igloo launched a Kickstarter campaign to help offset the cost of the new location. The campaign successfully raised $40,000 for a second print studio, including an additional vintage printing press to be used solely for community classes, public projects and personal rentals.
As with other Kickstarter campaigns, Igloo offered numerous rewards for donations, including merchandise, classes and private parties. “We wanted the Kickstarter campaign to be all about community creativity and to introduce the public to the unlimited possibilities of this new studio,” Chapman said. “We’re committed to keeping our focus local and look forward to sharing this space with the families and businesses around us.”
Creative Workshops
In addition to introductory classes on letterpress and bookbinding, Igloo is proud to collaborate with several local and national artists to offer a full lineup of workshops loaded with creative, fun themes like:
- Yes, You Can Draw with Keith Tatum
- Poetry & Printing with Amy Turn Sharp
- Pies & Printing with A.J. of Sassafras Bakery
- Beginner Calligraphy Workshop with The Hive Studio
- Amy Butler’s Color Class
- Emily McDowell’s Wholesale Class: What’s Next (Yes, THAT Emily McDowell)
Like many small businesses, Chapman's entire family embraces the it-takes-a-village mentality. “My kids have even joined in on the fun,” Chapman said. “My 11-year-old daughter loves helping with our bookbinding, and my 8-year-old son is helping to design and create pop-up cards.”
Learn More
Igloo Letterpress and Swoonful Gifts are easy to find. Just look for the teal-blue storefront at 661 High Street in Downtown Worthington. To learn more, visit their website, Facebook page or Instagram account for products, classes and events.
Convention & Visitors Bureau of Worthington
Worthington, Ohio, offers a variety of activities, attractions, specialty shops and dining options for visitors of all ages and interests. The Convention & Visitors Bureau of Worthington is your resource for all the latest information, including the event calendar at VisitWorthingtonOhio.com. You can also follow us on Facebook at Visit Worthington Ohio.