mcmanus & morgan

Next door to the Aardvark Printers in the Pico-Union district, is this amazing specialty paper shop that's been around since it was founded by two UCLA students in 1923.

They have a divine selection of rare and hard to find art, stationary and writing papers around. If you're a fan of antiques and things still made by hand, you'll especially enjoy poking around the shelves here. There's so much to find at this unassuming little shop, you'll want to buy everything. I like to go just to look at some of the beautiful handmade papers, especially their collection from Japan.

If you're looking for paper for letterpress, watercolor or for simply divine writing paper and notecards, M&M is a retailer of exquisite Fabriano Roma hand made paper from Italy which is hands down my favorite for everything. Fabriano is the oldest paper mill in Europe, turning out paper like this since 1267. It's made from cotton, has a rich texture and weight, a pale rich cream color with deckled edges that give away its history. It comes in many sizes and weights and with unique matching envelopes.

Sure you can find many of these at other shops in the westside, but why pay twice the price?

2506 W 7th St
Los Angeles, CA 90057
(213) 387-4433

aardvark letterpress

Little known, this is the oldest original letterpress in LA. I've had invites, thank you notes, and personalized stationary made here, all of which I've been thrilled with, but even if you're not in the market for custom printing, it's a cool place to check out just to see and watch them using the press. It's still a family business and everyone who works there is super friendly and helpful.

Letterpress is the oldest (and most expensive) method of printing around, but the look and feel of the finished product is unmistakable and second to none. There's no better way to create something unique and personal. Sure, there are other presses in town (for example, Soolip, which I also love), but they'll cost you a mint compared to Aardvark's.

Another bonus is the awesome paper shop next door where you can source, and even custom order, everything you need to have printed at a very reasonable price. If you're checking out printers or looking for letterpress, Aardvark's is an invaluable resource.

2500 W 7th St
Los Angeles, CA 90057
(213) 388-2271