Apple's Staff Picks are usually a good sign for app quality, but I don't need to see the label to understand the value and the potential of LetterMpress. What started as a project on KickStarter - the awesome crowd-sourcing site - has become a great iPad app for every typography lover.
In fact, the original idea was to create a fund to purchase a collection of genuine vintage cuts, something expensive and difficult to get hold of. Then, code an app including high definition scans and eventually allow users to place orders to produce authentic prints with an actual letterpress from the design created on your iPad.
LetterMPress [iTunes Link] is the result of the effort of John Bonadies and the 1,601 backers that pledged almost $40,000 to make this a reality. Following the app trend to replicate real-life objects, you are welcomed with the press table (or bed) where you place and arrange elements from the 15 typeface and 5 art collections included. There's also space for drawers to keep your virtual collections in order, allowing you to drag and drop as necessary.
The iPad screen is perfect to arrange your layouts, giving you the freedom you don't get with a mouse, for instance. The touch controls can be tricky to understand, but it's all easy once you get the wooden blocks are floating before you place them. Once you have included some furniture and locked the layout, it's time to make a first inking test and start experimenting with the results. I miss, however, some function to auto-lock everything.
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