McClain's Printmaking Supplies

An 8.5" x 10.5" Contact Frame sits on top of the larger 16.5" x 24.5"

Contact Frames

When people have problems with Solarplates, it is very often because the Solarplate and the image (on mylar or paper) are not making good contact with each other. These frames eliminate that problem and save you money by creating good contact between the Solarplate and transparency every time.

Streamline Plate Making
Instead of stuggling with wood clamps and glass/transparency/Solarplate/plywood sandwiches, simply open the contact frame by pivoting the pressure bars, insert the transparency and Solarplate and close up the frame. You are ready to expose the Solarplate in a matter of seconds.

Tough and Very Well Made
These frames are constructed from solid maple hardwood and double-reinforced with screws at each corner. The wood is finished with oil and then a wax overlay to protect it from water and ink.

The backs are made from solid, 1/2 " thick 9-ply Baltic Birch plywood. Heavy, wide aluminum pressure bars apply even pressure throughout. The pressure bars have been adjusted so the pressure will not warp the photopolymer.

The smaller frame has single strength thick glass; the larger one has double strength thick glass.

With care these frames will stand up to many years of continuous use.