American French Tool #30

PRINTMAKING DEPARTMENT

Nickname: Conrad

Year Produced: 2018

Manufacturer: Conrad Machine Company

Location: Michigan

Max. Print Space: 28”x42”

The American French Tool Company was started by Andre Beaudoin in the mid 1970s, and acquired by Conrad Machine Company in 1999. This machine is designed for intaglio printing but can also handle relief blocks . After ink is rolled onto a plate, any excess is wiped away, making sure the only ink remaining is packed in between the thin lines and grooves. Once the plate is set face-up on the etching press, a slightly damp piece of paper is placed on top of it. This is covered with an etching blanket before being rolled through the press. Its large wheel—which is five feet in diameter—helps apply the right amount of pressure to ensure a clean image.