Business Details
50+ Years
experience
Third & Elm Press: Fine Woodblock Prints & Art Gallery in Newport, RI
Since 1965, Third & Elm Press has been dedicated to preserving traditional woodblock printing techniques through the artistic vision of Ilse Buchert Nesbitt. Our press specializes in creating handcrafted woodblock prints, limited edition books, and notecards using 19th-century printing presses. Each piece is meticulously produced through a unique single-block color printing method developed by the artist, combining historical craftsmanship with contemporary artistry. Visitors to our Newport gallery can observe the printing process firsthand, witnessing how layered makeready techniques transform simple blocks into vibrant multi-colored works. With over five decades of experience, we maintain a commitment to quality, authenticity, and the educational value of traditional printmaking.Our collection spans floral motifs, cityscapes, and literary quotes, each reflecting both technical precision and artistic sensitivity. As a historic Rhode Island cultural institution, we bridge past and present through exhibitions, demonstrations, and carefully curated publications. Our expertise in letterpress printing and color modulation has established us as a trusted authority in fine art printmaking. We maintain transparency in our processes while ensuring each creation meets rigorous archival standards. Through our physical gallery and online shop, we continue to share this enduring craft with collectors, educators, and art enthusiasts worldwide.
Services
Woodblock Prints
Limited Edition Books
Notecards
Custom Prints
Gallery Tours
Details
- Year established: 1965
Highlights and features
- We have over 50 years of experience in traditional woodblock printing
- Our proprietary single-block color technique preserves historical methods
- Artist-led studio maintains direct connection to every creation
- Historic Newport location offers immersive printmaking demonstrations
- Archival-quality materials ensure lasting value for collectors
Services
Woodblock Prints
Handcrafted woodblock prints using traditional 19th-century techniques. Each piece employs a unique single-block color method developed by Ilse Nesbitt. Visitors witness the makeready process that modulates pressure for multi-color effects without multiple blocks.
Limited Edition Books
Small-run publications combining literary content with handprinted illustrations. These collectible volumes use archival materials and historic printing methods. Each edition maintains strict quality control through manual press operations.
Notecards
Artisan-crafted notecards featuring floral motifs, cityscapes, and literary quotes. Printed on premium paper using traditional techniques. Available in both single designs and curated collections.
People
Ilse Buchert Nesbitt
Artist & Printer
Master printmaker with over 50 years of experience in traditional woodblock techniques. Developed unique single-block color printing method. Preserves 19th-century press operations while creating contemporary artworks.
Questions
What printing techniques do you use?
We use traditional 19th-century letterpress equipment and a proprietary single-block color method developed by Ilse Nesbitt.
Can visitors watch the printing process?
Yes, our Newport gallery offers live demonstrations of the woodblock printing process during regular business hours.
How long has Third & Elm Press been operating?
We've been creating fine prints and books since our founding in 1965 by Ilse Buchert Nesbitt.
What products do you offer?
Our collection includes woodblock prints, limited edition books, notecards, and custom prints available through our gallery and online shop.
Reviews (2)
J. R.
Oct 08, 2019
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Ilse Newbitt, the owner/artist, was born in Germany and grew up in Japan. You'll see a strong Japanese influence in many of her woodblock prints. After teaching at the Rhode Island School of Design, she and her late husband opened the press and gallery. She makes her own paper and prints her work on a 100+ year old press. The Press is a bit out of the way but well worth finding. Ilse is charming and clearly is more interested in meeting people and educating them about her work rather than making a quick sale.
Tzook R.
Aug 10, 2016
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So old school original. And by old school I mean older than the 1950s. Great location to walk around not to far from downtown Newport and near the beach. The lady who runs this place is awesome. Oh, the paper products are incredible. You won't want to leave.
