Decades in Print: Unforgettable Moments from a NYC Print Shop

When you’ve been part of New York City’s creative fabric since 1978, you collect more than just projects—you collect stories. At Bestype, our history is filled with unexpected encounters, iconic collaborations, and moments that reflect the raw, evolving energy of NYC itself. Here are a few standout memories from our journey.

A Glimpse into NYC’s Underground Art Scene

Back in the 1990s, downtown New York had an edge that’s hard to replicate today. During that era, we worked with Polaroids from graffiti artist Dash Snow—images that captured a gritty, unfiltered side of the city. Let’s just say… gloves were required. The prints were destined for zines that pushed boundaries and reflected the rebellious creative culture of the time.

Lights, Camera… Bestype

Yes, it really happened—George Clooney spent time inside our shop while filming scenes for Michael Clayton. If you watch closely, you can even spot the Bestype name in the background of a print shop scene. It’s a small detail, but one we’re proud of—and yes, we still have a signed photo to prove it.

Behind the Scenes of Hollywood Magic

Our work hasn’t just stayed local—it’s made its way into major productions. We created prop newspapers for Catch Me If You Can and supported the creative process for Moulin Rouge! by printing storyboards during early development. It’s always rewarding to know our craftsmanship helped bring cinematic visions to life.

Supporting the Rise of a Fashion Icon

Before Zac Posen became a household name, he was a young designer with a studio just across the street. We worked closely with him on his very first fashion show and continued supporting his collections as his career grew. Those early lookbooks? We still have them—an incredible reminder of where it all started.

Collaborating with a Legend in Visual Art

One of our most meaningful experiences was working alongside Barbara Kruger. Her bold, text-driven artwork is instantly recognizable, and we had the opportunity to help produce pieces from her iconic series. Using early inkjet techniques and carefully setting type in her signature style, it was a true collaboration—though at the time, it simply felt like doing our job well.

The Beauty of the Unexpected

That’s the magic of running a print shop in New York City—you never know what project will come through the door or who you’ll meet along the way. From underground artists to Hollywood productions, every job has a story.

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