Grading Type

“In selecting a grade, consider whether more than one grade might be useful: if so, the font’s Complete package offers the best value, since it includes all four grades for less than the price of two.”

There’s a useful article over on Hoefler & Frere-Jones called Mastering Grades that is a guide for picking the right grade for your project.

“Letterpress

Most letterpress printers who print from photopolymer plates favor a deep impression. To compensate for ink squeeze, use Grade One, especially when printing on heavier stocks, such as those used for business cards and invitations. If you must reverse out of a solid color, use Grade Four.”