About Us

In the heart of Bayfield, Colorado, nestled amidst the

breathtaking San Juan Mountains, Pine River Pressworks is more

than just a letterpress studio – it's a living testament to the

enduring power of craft, creativity, and community.

Our story began with a spark of inspiration ignited by Jenn Kelly's great-uncle Bill Snell of Evergreen, CO, a passionate advocate for preserving the art of letterpress printing. His dedication to this time-honored tradition ignited a flame in Jenn, leading her to envision a space where the tactile beauty of letterpress could be shared and celebrated.

Together with her partner, Bryan Hill, Jenn embarked on a journey to bring this vision to life. With a shared love for the mountains, a deep appreciation for craftsmanship, and a commitment to social responsibility, they founded Pine River Pressworks.

Our studio is a haven for creativity, where the rhythmic clatter of antique presses harmonizes with the laughter and conversation of our community. We offer a diverse range of services, from custom letterpress printing that elevates your brand to hands-on workshops that ignite your artistic spirit. Our curated retail space showcases the work of local artisans, offering unique gifts and treasures that tell a story.

But our mission extends beyond the studio walls. We believe in the power of art to uplift and connect, and we're committed to using our craft for social good. Through partnerships with organizations like Pine River Shares and The ARC of the Southwest, we strive to address food insecurity, promote inclusivity, and empower individuals of all abilities.

At Pine River Pressworks, we're not just printing on paper; we're printing on hearts and minds. We invite you to join us in this journey of creativity, connection, and community building.

Pine River Pressworks: Partnerships for Community Impact

Pine River Pressworks is not just a business; it's a catalyst for positive change, deeply rooted in the Bayfield community. We are committed to using the art of letterpress printing to empower individuals, foster creativity, and uplift our community.

Our Partnerships: Making a Difference Together

• Pine River Shares: We collaborate with Pine River Shares to combat food insecurity in our community. Through the design and printing of promotional materials, hosting fundraising events, and encouraging staff volunteerism, we help raise awareness and resources for those in need.

• The ARC of the Southwest: We partner with The ARC of the SW to provide inclusive training and employment opportunities for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Our adapted workshops and internships empower these individuals to develop valuable skills and contribute to our creative community.

Workforce Development: Building a Stronger Future

• The Werks Internship Program: Our flagship program goes beyond traditional job training. We equip participants with both technical letterpress skills and transferable skills like problem-solving, design thinking, and project management, preparing them for diverse careers in the modern workforce.

• State Partnerships: We actively seek collaborations with workforce development programs like Skill Advance Colorado, WIOA, and the Registered Apprenticeship Program to expand our reach and impact, ensuring that our training aligns with the state's economic goals.

Our Commitment to the Community:

Pine River Pressworks is dedicated to enriching the cultural fabric of Bayfield and the surrounding region. We believe in the power of art to connect people, inspire creativity, and drive positive change. Our commitment to community engagement is reflected in our partnerships, educational programs, and events.

• Economic Revitalization: As a small business, we create jobs, attract tourism, and contribute to the local economy.

• Cultural Enrichment: We celebrate the rich history and artistry of letterpress printing, adding to the cultural vibrancy of Bayfield.

• Educational Opportunities: Our workshops and classes provide valuable learning experiences for all ages, fostering creativity and skill development.

• Social Responsibility: We actively engage in initiatives that address social issues and promote inclusivity, making our community stronger and more connected.

Join Us in Making a Difference

At Pine River Pressworks, we believe in the power of collaboration and creativity to create positive change. We invite you to join us in our mission to empower individuals, enrich our community, and preserve the legacy of letterpress printing.