Donald Kerr at the University of Otago [New Zeeland], informed me of his institution’s Vandercook made by Pre Press Ltd. of London. His photos show a carriage nameplate stating that it is a No. 4 However, the cabinet and feed board styling (and presumedly the inking system were it present) is that of a 215. […]
MoreAdjustment of grippers on SP-15
The grippers work fine on our SP-15 when we use the foot pedal to insert the paper, but they do not properly release the paper at the end of the print. Other than adding some shims behind the bracket that activates the gripper lever at the end of the print action, is there another method […]
More#4 worm gear needs an evaluation
The oscillating metal roller on my recently acquired #4 has been having a little bit of trouble making making its way back and forth when I ink up. It was sticking just as it reached it closest position to the operator, when the worm gear was no longer visible, I guess at the point where […]
MoreSP-15 in need of thorough cleanup
My newly purchased SP-15 is now moved into its new home and I’ve been able to take a close look at it for the first time (I bought it based only on photos so couldn’t see all details). It looks to be in very good shape (no rust or dents) with no major parts missing. […]
MoreHalf-yearling
This blog is six months old. Thank you to all the registered users, you now number 83. Together we have generated 55 posts (viewed over 10,000 times) and 254 comments. While these numbers are small, some good information has been captured and categorized for the common goal of extending the life of these presses. To […]
Morevice grip and trip
i just bought a lovely vandercook 4, there is a vice grip spring loaded attached to the bar that runs across the width of the press under the bed…when i return the carriage, the vice grip engages and makes a clunking sound. what gives? the previous owner said he thinks there was some problem with […]
MoreNo. 1 Vandercook Proof Press
I have just acquired the above press, and am looking for people who have experience using one. The serial number is 8596. I want to use it for printing invitations and other small pieces. This is a tabletop, hand-ink press with a crank and a 16×21 bed. I cannot seem to find a visual of […]
Moremissing parts from my 320
I have a disassembled 320 who’s missing a few parts. I have no idea where they went to, probably some sculpture kid ran off with them. Anyway, as I see it I have 3 options. 1] find replacement parts from a scrap press 2] machine new parts based on actual pieces or plans 3] sell […]
MoreUniversal III Feedboard and Bed Extension
My manual for the Universal III shows that it was available with either a 42 inch or 30-inch feed board. Both of my Universal IIIs have the longer one, but also have a bed extension at the far end of the press bed. This makes the press awkwardly long and difficult to get around in […]
MoreFlooring under SP-15
Hello, I have just purchased a Vandercook model SP-15. I’m just starting out in letterpress printing and have taken some workshops but hadn’t expected to be owning a press of my own quite yet. But as luck will have it, I had one fall on me, so to speak. My question is, I’m going to […]
MoreTouch up Paint for the Vandercook?
I have a #4 that is in pretty good shape, but there are a number of spots on the press with worn or chipped paint. My feed table is particularly worn, and I am interested in touching it up both for appearance reasons, but aslo to protect the exposed metal form rust and what not. […]
MoreLetterpress wanted
Printmaking department of Towson University in Maryland is searching for a Vandercook SP 15 model for donation or sale. We have a small space we hope to set up a letterpress area in and are seeking information on where to find a used press. Please email lpeter2@towson.edu with any help. Thanks!
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