Description
The Master Printer’s Choice: Arc Editions 20" Hand-Stitched Leather Roller
Takach Press is proud to offer the Arc Editions 20-inch Leather Roller, widely recognized as the finest lithographic roller in the world. Arc Editions has set the global standard for leather rollers, utilizing traditional hand-stitching techniques that no machine can replicate. Whether you are working on a limestone block or a ball-grained aluminum plate, this roller provides a level of sensitivity and ink control that is essential for high-fidelity printmaking.
Why Arc Editions Craftsmanship Matters Every Arc Editions roller is a result of meticulous hand-assembly:
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Invisible Hand-Stitching: Unlike mass-produced rollers, the seam on an Arc Editions roller is hand-sewn with a hidden stitch. This ensures that no "seam ghosting" or marks appear on your litho stone or aluminum plate during the roll-up.
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Optimal Nap Recovery: The high-quality leather selected by Arc Editions is chosen for its ability to hold a "nap" (texture). This nap is crucial for picking up water while depositing ink, keeping your image clean and your blacks deep.
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Precision Balance: Built on a seasoned maple core with integrated handles, the weight distribution is perfected for the subtle "flick" and pressure changes required by master printers.
Versatility for Modern Lithography While historically used for stone lithography, the Arc Editions leather roller is arguably the best tool for ball-grained aluminum plates. The leather’s unique interaction with the grain of the plate prevents the "filling-in" of delicate highlights, a common frustration when using synthetic rubber rollers.
Care, Maintenance & Break-In To protect your investment in an Arc Editions tool, a proper break-in is required:
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Break-In Period: The leather must be conditioned with a series of lithographic varnishes. A complete set of Arc Editions Break-In Instructions is included with your order.
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Cleaning: Use a Leather Roller Scraper to keep the leather nap supple and free of dried ink.
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Storage: Store in a cool, dry place. Avoid contact with water or solvents not specified in the maintenance guide.
