Who makes up White Beech Press?

It’s me, Michael Kossa. That’s it.

Where is the press located?

I’m in the Annapolis area of Maryland. Currently White Beech Press is operating primarily out of a workshop behind my house, where one day I hope to add climate control.

How much of the work do you do yourself?

As much as I can! I have heard conversations around what exactly constitutes a private press, or what amount of manual labor allows an object to be called hand-made. My opinion is largely that you know it when you see it, and the goal of my work is not to allow White Beech Press to fit within a philosophical boundary. I want to do the work myself in order to improve as an artist and craftsperson. I enjoy learning new skills and exploring the possibilities bookmaking offers, and I’m excited to expand my repertoire and scope.

As things are now, printing and binding being done personally is a given. The design and layout of each book will be mine, and follow my personal vision. I hope to provide illustrations whenever I feel my talent is sufficient. In the future, I look to expand into papermaking, and the ability to achieve any decorative elements I feel the text deserves. If there were enough hours in the day I would do everything, but there are no shortage of rabbit holes. Which is, of course, the fun of it.

What equipment do you use?

I am printing each edition on a Vandercook Universal I. I initially learned the process of letterpress printing at Pyramid Atlantic Art Center in Hyattsville, Maryland, and that was the machine we used there. When I saw the same press for sale within driving distance I decided it was a sign to take the plunge.

Cutting is done by hand with a utility knife, with an MBM Triumph 1171, or an MBM Triumph 4305, depending on what the situation calls for.

The rest of the work folding, sewing, binding, etc. is done with a combination of small hand tools. Nothing is automated, so the work proceeds at hand speed.

Why are you making books by hand?

Because I love books. I love art. I love paper. Together the act of holding something crafted with intention and care, while reading text somebody selected as a result of real affection, is a great joy for me. I was a collector before I decided to become a creator, and I’m excited to join a community of wonderful craftspeople.

What sort of things will you be printing?

Things I like is the short answer.

The longer answer is that I would like to put out a variety of genres and styles. I have favorite novels, short stories, essays, plays, and poems which would each be a shame to omit. Of course, practical considerations will also guide my choices of text. In general you can rest assured that if I have taken the time to create something, it’s because I think it’s worth your time to read.

How often will you release books?

I have wild plans of releasing a book on a roughly quarterly basis, as well as a couple smaller projects. Please feel encouraged to subscribe to the mailing list to keep abreast of any upcoming plans.

Are you going to finish this website?

Yes! Soon. If you are reading this text block, know that I’ll be continuing to flesh out this website over the next month or so. I have some more pictures and information I want to add. Some more background and polish. Of course the storefront. Things have been busy here, many plates spinning as they say.