Customised Bookplates - Printed by Letterpress
Never lose track of your precious books with a personalised bookplate

Bookplates, small printed “labels” have been placed in books to declare ownership, since the 15th century. Well-known artists or engravers have designed many such bookplates as a mark of possession of books by a private person or library.

Bookplates typically bear a name with any motif that relates to the owner of the book, such as a coat or arms, crest or motif that depicts a special interest. The inscription is normally “Ex Libris” (from the library of ), or “This book belongs to”.

A personalised bookplate is a special thing in its own right. It ensures that you will be much more likely to get books returned to you that you have lent to friends! It also adds to the enjoyment of building up a personal library.

A present of personalised bookplates to a young person, can contribute to a lifetime love of books. In this they make a special present to relations, god-children and friends.

Bookplates printed by letterpress are very special. They can be printed on softer papers where the slight indent of the printing and crispness of the detail can be really appreciated. They are as commensurate with old and antique books, as they are with modern publications.

Size: Although any size of bookplate can be supplied, Piccolo Press recommends a size of 70mm x 100m as being a good size for the majority of books. Our prices are worked out for this size of plate.

Design & Printing Plate: Once a plate is designed and made, it can be used again and again. The cost of design and plate for a “standard” bookplate is £50.00 (Complex designs may be slightly more)


Printing Papers: Piccolo recommends four papers for bookplates:


A. Soft White 100% cotton paper (100gsm). This is a high quality paper that produces a lovely letterpress image. The bookplates are not gummed and have to be individually stuck into your books by hand.

B. Soft White Recycled 100% laid paper (100gsm). This paper prints well and again is not gummed on the reverse of the sheet.

C. Natural White peel and stick smooth paper (90gsm). This paper gives a good letterpress impression. It is the easiest paper to stick into books, but position of the plate needs to be done with care, as once the contact with the page of the book is made, instant adhesion is achieved.

D. Bright White Gummed Paper (90gsm). This is a very smooth paper with the advantage that a small amount of re-positioning of the plate can be done once the gum is wet.

Prices include VAT

Packaging: Bookplates are packed in a strong presentation box.

See Bookplate Samples