Ever the adventurer, Kevin Cox takes letterpress to the edge with his beautifully crafted work for Jazyrain Letterpress. An entrepreneur and pioneer in every sense, Kevin works in his letterpress print shop against the breathtaking backdrop of Portland, Oregon. We’ve been able to wrangle him away from his presses to get a few words.
Can you tell us a little about yourself?
I’m 39 years old. Mostly a self-taught graphic designer and a completely self-taught letterpress printer. I’m a recently divorced father of two wonderful daughters and very nearly lost my life due to a heart condition during the summer of 2010. Life has dealt me some hard blows recently but I’ve gained a new perspective and I do my best to live by a new mantra “Rule 32: enjoy the little things” (lifted from Zombieland). Running Jazyrain gives me two things; a sense of pride in myself and my work that I’ve never felt before and the freedom to make time for my two girls.
How did you first get involved in letterpress?
I started this business with the intent to design and hand off my files to a local letterpress printer. I couldn’t find a printer that was very willing to work with me so I set out to build my own letterpress print shop. I didn’t take long for me to realize that I enjoy printing more than designing, so I’ve transitioned my business to cater more towards independent designers and creative studios. I do occasionally work directly with brides to design and print their wedding invitations, but it’s no longer my bread and butter.
Are you a designer / printer or printer only?
I occasionally design but I prefer to print the work of other designers.
If you design, tell us a little about your process.
I create my designs by taking Illustrator artwork or Photoshop bitmaps and placing them into InDesign for the typography work. I communicate and provide digital proofs for my clients by email, who are almost always outside my local area.
Do you print full time? If yes, for how long? If no, is that your goal?
I do operate my shop fulltime. I have an 800 sq. ft. Light-Manufacturing zoned space that works perfectly for my needs.
What are some accomplishments you are proud of?
I’ve recently printed and diecut some hang-tags for a Simpatico bubble bath that I’ve seen selling at a local Anthropologie store. It was a very proud moment to see the work that I created attached to these high-end bubble bath bottles.
How has Boxcar Press helped you with your business and printing?
I’ve tried local plate makers in the past, but your quality and quick and reliable turnaround makes you my only vendor for printing plates.
What plans do you have for 2012 that you’d like to share?
My plan is to grow my business just enough to meet the needs of my personal life without taking me off the press. I have no desire to take on a managerial role while someone else gets the joy of printing.
What was your very first press?
My first press was a Chandler & Price 8×12 Old Style
Describe your print shop.
My print shop contains a 12×18 C&P Old Style, Miehle Vertical V-36. C&P 19″ paper cutter as well as a 32″ paper cutter (not sure of its maker, just says GEM). I also have a Challenge paper drill and Lassco corner rounder.
Any neat tricks or advice you can share?
Understanding how a business runs is just as important as understanding how the press runs if you want to build a viable and profitable business. I’ve learned that the hard way.
Thanks Kevin for letting us take a glimpse into the wonderful world of Jazyrain! Keep those rollers inked!
{Photos provided by Kevin}
