Dard Hunter was born on November 29, 1883 into an Ohio family with a long tradition of printing and publishing. His given name was William Joseph, and the origin of the nickname "Dard" remains unknown.

Seeking a career in art, he joined Elbert Hubbard's Roycrofters in East Aurora, New York, in 1904. As a leading proponent of America's Arts and Crafts Movement, Hubbard encouraged Hunter to develop his artistic talents in many media, including graphic design, stained glass, and metalwork.

Hunter became fascinated with early papermaking and printing after a visit to London. He returned to America and printed his first book in 1915, The Etching of Figures by William Bradley. True to the creed of the Arts and Cra...