Each print might be a slight bit different, depending on how uniformly the type is inked, how evenly the handles are pushed down on each pass, and how much pressure is applied during the whole print. This is a satisfying experience where you’ll feel like you are a part of the printing process, instead of the press doing all the work.Īs with any non-pressure type press, this is not an exact science. of additional pressure, depending on how tall and strong you are. As demonstrated in the first (top) video on this page, if more weight is necessary, press down on the handles as you draw the cylinder across your lay-up, which provides approximately 50 lbs. Whether this amount of weight will make a satisfactory print depends on many factors, including how much type the cylinder contacts at one time. The cylinder has a professionally machined, very smooth surface, and weighs approximately 50 lbs. This is a “gravity-based” press, where the weight of the cylinder creates the pressure instead of a “pinch-based” press where pressure is created by pinching the cylinder and the platen together. Also provided is a non-metallic base for photopolymer printing plates. To get you started, I provide a 9″ x 12″ maple chase for smaller lockups and three sets of tapered wedges instead of quoins. Depending on your composition, you may still need some furniture to finish your lockup. Lockup is the same as any proofing-type press, except a pressure bar can be inserted at 1/2″ intervals to eliminate the need for lots of furniture. This short video shows how easy it is to put together.
Visit the letterpress proofing press photo gallery page for expanded views. Who says printing equipment has to be dull grey or black, heavy-duty, cast iron? Like the book-binding equipment I build, I take pride in the overall look of the piece, not just the function of it. Since I am a cabinetmaker, I build this as a fine piece of woodworking, not as an industrial piece of machinery. It is a satisfying and attractive piece of equipment to use. It’s built from hardwood and Baltic birch plywood with a Formica-covered 1.5″ thick MDF platen. Non-skid rubber feet also insure it won’t move. At the same time, it’s heavy enough to keep from sliding around on your bench. It’s portable, too, meaning two people can easily move it from one part of the studio to another. This letterpress proofing press is modular and comes apart easily, making UPS shipping and transport simple and relatively inexpensive compared to a costly trucking company. The actual inside dimensions of the printing area are 14.5″ x 22.5″. This size should be suitable for most needs. As with all my equipment, orders for custom sizes are always welcomed. If you want to start printing soon, using a letterpress with no breakable parts, nothing to maintain, and at a price that’s fair, then this press is for you.
It fit well with my passion for building quality, modern versions of tried-and-true equipment at an affordable price. While researching and developing this product, I learned about a whole community of people desiring to pursue letterpress using equipment similar to this. Like many of the products on this site, this Letterpress Proofing Press began as a custom order for a customer. While many of those presses are still around, finding one that’s available for sale and in working condition is rare. The inspiration for this Letterpress Proofing Press is the original Line-o-scribe 1422, historically used by grocery stores and theaters to make their own 14″ x 22″ posters.
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