Help Identifying Presses That Suit My Requirements
I’m basically a novice, have done a post card, a broadside and a poster. My main interest in printing would be the occasional cards or stationary for friends/family, and more often to produce limited edition broadsides and chapbooks using my own material and material from artists featured in my literary journal. While a vandercook or a larger treadle press would probably make the job easier, I’m thinking that due to apartment size constraints, I’m better off going with a tabletop platen press. I don’t mind the extra time I’d have to put in to producing lengthier broadsides and chapbooks. I realize that since the Sigwalt has open sides, and from what I’ve read, is one of the higher quality presses, that it would accomodate my aims, but given that it may be hard to find (and I can’t afford the $2500 for everything Tony’s offering for his #5 & other items in the classifieds), I’m wondering which other tabletop platens have open sides that wouldn’t restrict page length/width (Golding I think does, but do the Craftsman?, the Hohner?, the Pilot?), and whether or not a proof press would be a well-matched alternative (and exactly how a proof press functions). I’m thinking 6x9 or larger only.
Any other suggestions anyone may have are also very much appreciated. Many thanks in advance for any help provided.
you should contact alan at excelsior press, they are in nj and have different presses for sale. also letterpress things in chicopee, ma they have different presses for sale. i think you would be wise to see the presses then make a decision as to which one would suit you. good luck dick g.