In this episode of the Platemark, I interview Mike Stark, the co-founder and owner of Stark Press Company. The New Jersey-based company, run by Mike and his brother Tom, builds new presses, services old presses, and aids in moving them. They often collaborate with Perry Tymeson, a legendary press repairman. Mike shares insights into designing new presses, managing a small business, and balancing creative work. We talk about studying print media at SAIC in Chicago and establishing Stark Press. We talk about his experiences in moving heavy presses, sometimes in challenging conditions, and the special bonds within the printmaking ecosystem.

www.starkpressco.com

@iammikestark

@pinklinepress

@starkpressco

Mike Stark and Tom Stark, Stark Press Company.

Perry Tymeson, Suitcase Press.

Keegan Mills Cooke and Daniel Gardiner Morris helping with a move.

Mike Stark printing.

Stark Press Company’s 1224 etching press.

Mike Stark. Perry Tymeson. Laser cut relief. Pink Line Press.

Mike Stark. Laser-cut relief. Pink Line Press.

Tom Stark, Mike Stark, and Kevin McGauran.

Keegan Mills Cooke and Daniel Gardiner Morris helping with a move.

Moving a Vandercook press in 2017.

Moving a Vandercook press in 2025.

Sending a Vandercook Press out a window.

Praga Press flying high above.

Moving a Vandercook Press using a crane.

Mike Stark. The Beatings Will Continue Until Morale Improves. Laser-cut letterpress. Pink Line Press.

Mike Stark’s laser-cut letterpress plate inked up and ready for printing.

Paper beater.