handpers
Handpers, or hand presses, are manually operated devices designed to apply a controlled amount of pressure to a workpiece. They are used in small-scale printing, bookbinding, embossing, and various crafts to transfer ink, create impressions, set foils, or secure materials. They are typically tabletop units that rely on human force via a lever or a screw mechanism.
Common forms include lever hand presses, screw presses (crank or geared), and fly presses. Lever presses use
History and context: Hand presses arose in the early days of movable-type printing and remained essential in
Applications: In letterpress, handpers print by applying inked type onto paper with a press bed; in embossing
Operations and safety: Proper setup includes aligning the platen, using appropriate dies or plates, and avoiding