Why Join the BPS?
There are lots of benefits to joining the British Printing Society. Whether you are totally new to printing or you have lived a lifetime in print there will be something here for you.
A Great Community
The British Printing Society (BPS) is a perfect place to meet and make contact with a wide range of people who, like you, have an interest in all forms of printing, typography and the history of print. BPS members are from all walks of life; some from a lifetime in the printing industry and others who have come to it later as artists or from a hobby background.
Meet some of our members
The Society in Print
Our magazine Small Printer is published bi-monthly and all BPS members receive a copy. You will find articles on Society and membership news, various aspects of printing, the history of printing, instructional features, correspondence, ideas and suggestions, details of suppliers and small ads for equipment.
The magazine is edited by members and features articles by members. It really is the voice of the Society. Small Printer reaches all society members, wherever they live.
Read a few articles
Get Local
Once you have joined the Society, why not join your local branch? There are eleven BPS branches across the UK, plus an online branch for those people who don’t have a local branch. We even have an overseas branch.
Branches meet or Zoom regularly and also organise days out and open days.
If you’re thinking of joining the BPS, you are welcome to attend one or two of your local branch meetings free of charge beforehand.
Find your local branch
Inky Bundles Through the Post
The Publishing Group (PG) is a group of Society members who print and publish short runs, purely for the pleasure of it, to an audience of similarly minded members. Members of the PG submit a printed item (or items) every two months and these are circulated to each group member. We call this a ‘bundle’. Bundle items can be anything from a single sheet or a small card to small booklets and, occasionally, limited edition books.
More about the PG
Open Days
Each year the Society holds a number of Open Days throughout the UK, usually organised by our branches.
In Spring, one of these Open Days also hosts the Society and PG AGMs, and Award Ceremonies. The AGMs are open to all, but only Society members may vote.
Typically an Open Day will consist of a Wayzgoose, with Society members and other dealers selling their print-related goods, and of course the obligatory tea and cake stall! These events are open to the public and are the perfect opportunity to come along and find out more about becoming a member.
Find out what's planned