(Chain & Direct Drives)
Position your cursor over image. Right click and move to rotate the press
Black Velvet Set: $50. Canadian
The Black Velvet Bench Press Plan Set, similar to its larger counterpart Orangeman Press, is designed to provide you with an affordable and accessible solution for building a small bench press. It shares the same focus on economy of build, simplicity in construction, and is suitable for those working on a budget.
The plan set is tailored for printmakers who have basic building skills and are comfortable working with minimal tools. The instructions provided in the plan set are clear and concise, guiding users through the construction process with ease. This ensures that printmakers with varying levels of experience can successfully build this small bench press.
The emphasis on economy of build allows you to construct the press without incurring excessive costs. By utilizing affordable materials and employing efficient construction techniques, the plan set provides a cost-effective option for those who are mindful of their budget.
The Black Velvet Bench Press, while compact in size, still offers lots of functionality and reliability. It is designed to accommodate the needs of printmakers working in limited spaces or with smaller printing substrates. Despite its smaller scale, the small bench press is constructed with attention to detail and durability.
Printmakers interested in the Orangeman Small Bench Press Plan Set should carefully review the provided instructions and ensure they have the necessary tools and materials to undertake the project. By following the plan set, you can successfully build your own small bench press and enjoy the benefits of having a functional printing tool without breaking the bank.
Overall, the Black Velvet Bench Press Plan Set offers an economical and accessible solution for printmakers who desire a small bench press. It empowers you to create your own printing equipment while remaining mindful of your budget and without compromising on quality.
| Frame | Bed Width | Top Roller Diameter | CNC Cut Files | Direct Drive | Chain Drive | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Black Velvet Plan Set | 
Steel |
12" - 24" ( 30 cm- 60cm) |
4" - 6" (10 cm - 15cm) |
Yes (Wheel) | Yes | Yes |
The plans are organized into sections so that you can focus on one section at a time until your press is complete. Throughout the plans there are live internet links so that you can search and order any bearings, steel, threaded rod etc you need.
The plans organized sections can greatly facilitate the construction process, allowing you to focus on one aspect of the etching press at a time. This approach helps break down the project into manageable steps and ensures a systematic progression towards completion.
The availability of live internet links within the plans adds further convenience by providing easy access to relevant resources. With these links, you can search and order specific components such as bearings, bushings, gears, or any other necessary parts directly from online suppliers. This can save time and effort in sourcing the required materials for your etching press.
When following the links, it's advisable to review the product descriptions, specifications, and customer reviews to ensure that the chosen components are suitable for your project. Take note of any compatibility requirements or variations in sizes, materials, or specifications to ensure a proper fit and optimal performance within your press design.
Furthermore, be mindful of the reputation and reliability of the online suppliers you choose. Check their shipping policies, return policies, and customer support options to ensure a smooth purchasing experience.
The inclusion of live internet links in the plans reflects the dynamic nature of online resources and provides flexibility for obtaining the necessary components for your etching press. It enables you to conveniently access a wide range of options and choose the best-suited parts for your specific requirements.
Included in the plans is a custom size calculator that calculates the size of the press that fits your needs. Simply enter the largest bed size you will be printing on, the calculator will compute the size of the frame parts you will need.
A custom size calculator for this etching press that calculates the required frame parts based on the largest bed size you will be printing can be a useful tool for anyone building this press. By entering the desired bed size, the calculator can determine the appropriate dimensions for the frame parts needed to construct the press.
The calculator takes into account the structural integrity and stability of the press, ensuring that it can effectively handle the printing process without warping or compromising the quality of the prints. It may consider factors such as the thickness and type of materials used for the frame, the dimensions of the rollers, and other components necessary for the press's operation.
With the calculated dimensions provided by the custom size calculator, users can then proceed to construct or customize their etching press according to their specific requirements, ensuring that it will accommodate the desired bed size for their printing needs.
You have the option of selecting from two drive types. Direct Drive or Chain Drive (4:1 ratio) .
The choice between direct drive and chain drive for this etching press refers to the mechanism used to transfer power from the handle to the roller, which applies pressure to the printing substrate. Let's explore both options:
1. Direct Drive: In a direct drive system, the handle is directly connected to the drive roller without any additional intermediary components. This means that when you rotate the handle, it directly rotates the roller, applying pressure to the printing substrate. Direct drive systems are generally simple in design and operation, offering a direct and immediate response to the user's input.
2. Chain Drive (4:1 ratio): A chain drive system incorporates a chain and sprocket mechanism to transfer power from the handle to the roller. The handle is connected to a smaller sprocket, and a larger sprocket is attached to the drive roller. The chain wraps around these sprockets, creating a gear reduction system. This 4:1 ratio means that for every four rotations of the handle, the roller will rotate once. Chain drives are often used to provide mechanical advantage, making it easier to apply pressure to the printing substrate. They can be advantageous for larger presses or when significant pressure is required.
The choice between direct drive and chain drive depends on personal preference, the specific requirements of the printing process, and the size of the press. Direct drive systems are straightforward and offer a direct connection between the handle and the roller. Chain drives provide mechanical advantage, making it easier to apply pressure, especially for larger bed sizes.Consider factors such as the desired level of control, the size and weight of the printing substrates, the desired pressure, and the overall design of the etching press when making a decision between direct drive and chain drive for your specific needs.
You can use a top print roller any where from 150 to 250 mm diameter (6 to 8 inches)
If you are having trouble finding a machine shop that can construct steel rollers
(Check out a new solution for making your own rollers and save a lot of $$$)
The beauty of the Black Velvet Press Design, is that it can be built with simple tools that you may have hanging around. You will save a lot of money and time by doing most of the work your self. There is a full parts list with internet links to accuire any bearings nuts and bolts etcetra. There are a couple of CNC cut files for diffrent size wheels that are best made using this method. The rest of the press frame has simple parts that are easy to build yourself.
There is an exploded assembly drawing that shows how to assemble your press once you build the parts.
Having an exploded assembly drawing can be immensely helpful when assembling this etching press. It provides a visual representation of how the various components fit together and the order in which they should be assembled. Here's some general information on how to utilize an exploded assembly drawing:
1.Component Identification: The exploded assembly drawing will typically include labels or callouts for each component, making it easier to identify and locate the specific parts required for assembly. Familiarize yourself with the labels to understand which parts correspond to which components.
2.Sequence of Assembly: The drawing will illustrate the correct order in which the components should be assembled. Start by identifying the primary frame structure and work your way through the various components, following the indicated sequence. Pay attention to any arrows or numbering that indicate the direction or order of assembly.
3.Connection and Fastening Points: The drawing will indicate how the different components connect and fasten together. This includes screws, bolts, nuts, or other joining mechanisms. Take note of the sizes and types of fasteners required, as well as any specific locations where they should be installed.
4.Alignment and Orientation: The exploded assembly drawing will show how the components align and orient with respect to one another. Pay attention to the alignment of holes, slots, or other features that ensure proper fitting and functionality of the press.
5.Additional Instructions: In some cases, the exploded assembly drawing may include additional notes or instructions to guide you through the assembly process. These instructions might provide tips, warnings, or important details that can help ensure a successful assembly.
It's important to follow the exploded assembly drawing closely, as it serves as a visual guide to assemble the various parts correctly. If you encounter any difficulties or have specific questions during the assembly process, it can be helpful to consult with the provided documentation or seek guidance from experienced individuals, such as manufacturers or fellow printmakers who have experience with similar presses.
Remember to work in a safe and organized manner, and double-check your progress against the drawing as you proceed to ensure accurate assembly.
