Matrix Dept.

Benton engraving machine. Photo: Scott Lowe

There are three methods used to produce matrices at The Dale Guild Type Foundry, the most common being machine engraving using our two Benton Engraving machines. We can also drive punches, and grow electrodeposited matrices. Our matrix department specializes in engraving suites of new matrices from artwork to be put in production for foundry casting. We can also produce replacement matrices for various styles of Monotype machines.

A service that we offer for printers is to have matrices produced for pressmarks, proprietary typefaces and decorative material. Artwork for proprietary matrix production is a crucial element is creating the finest type available. Drawings for new types can be done by hand or generated on a computer to make our engraving patterns; our art department specializes in transposing artwork into finished type.

In addition to cutting matrices for type production we can also grow electrodeposited matrices from pristine unprinted type. Electrodepositing is a one of the best methods to produce matrices for existing typefaces and decorative material. It provides exact copies of the type used for the plating process and eliminates the need for artwork and engraving patterns.