London's Stationers: A Short Guide to Paper, Ink, and the Christmas Post

Introduction

There is a moment in November when London begins to feel like itself again. The clocks have gone back, the evenings draw in early, and somewhere in Mayfair the scent of ink and warm paper drifts into the street. Christmas cards need writing, and a proper card deserves proper stationery.

The trade of the stationer has been recognized in London since 1403, when the Worshipful Company of Stationers was first formed. By 1557, the Company had received its royal charter, establishing control over the publishing and printing trades throughout the realm. For centuries, the Stationers' Company regulated who could print, what could be published, and how the written word moved through London and beyond. Today, the Company remains one of the City's ancient livery companies, its hall at Ave Maria Lane near St Paul's a reminder that the business of paper, ink, and the press has always been a London craft.

That tradition continues in quieter form. London still has workshops where engravers work by hand, and where the methods used haven't changed in generations. The sensible shoppers place their orders early. The rest make their way to these houses hoping the Christmas run hasn't yet filled up.

This guide covers four stationers worth knowing: engravers, printers, and letterpress houses whose work has marked the season for decades.

The Wren Press

Founded in 1985 and granted a Royal Warrant in 2012, The Wren Press produces some of the capital's finest engraved correspondence. Their Christmas cards have a depth and softness that digital printing can't match. The workshop uses traditional methods throughout. You place an order, you wait, and you receive something that feels properly made.

They also offer writing paper, monogrammed cards, and engraved invitations. Pricing starts around £350 for 100 engraved letterheads.

Best for: Engraved Christmas cards, monogrammed correspondence.
Location: 1 Curzon Street, Mayfair.

Mount Street Printers

A family-owned print house in Mayfair that balances tradition with practicality. Their letterpress cards are beautifully produced, and their Christmas selection runs from whimsical to formal. Walk-ins are welcome, which helps when time gets short.

Best for: Letterpress cards, personalised orders, Mayfair convenience.
Location: 4 Mount Street, Mayfair.

Barnard & Westwood

Printers to the Royal Household and specialists in engraved and die-stamped stationery. Based near King's Cross, their Christmas cards are elegant and traditional, and their bespoke invitations are known for restraint and balance.

Best for: Engraving, formal invitations, traditional Christmas cards.
Location: Clerkenwell.

Gee Brothers

A reliable Clapham stationer known for good taste and excellent service. Gee Brothers offers engraved cards, thermography, letterpress, and digital printing, all done with care. Their Christmas catalogue is comprehensive enough to help both the organised and the late.

Best for: Classic correspondence cards, accessible pricing, quick turnaround.
Location: 221 St John's Hill, Clapham.

A Few Practical Notes

For engraved cards with real weight, try The Wren Press or Barnard & Westwood. For quality with speed, Mount Street Printers or Gee Brothers. Whatever you choose, don't leave it too late. The presses fill quickly, and there's something satisfying about finishing your cards before Advent begins.

Looking Ahead

These houses will appear in future guides to Mayfair and the surrounding areas. For now, they offer what matters. In a season of noise, a handwritten card cuts through.