So I usually try and stay away from posting too much about equipment. I know I posted a while back about some tools I got but… I just think that what one makes is more important than the tools used to create it. But in this case, this piece represents the craftsmanship of my brother-in-law, who is really great at what he does and equally generous with his time.

This is my new nipping press that he/we (mostly he) made. I wish I had better photos to illustrate the extreme upgrade this represents for me. Prior to this press I was using two pieces of 1/2 inch pine with a couple of wing nuts to press my books. It was truly inadequate in every way. This press is made from 1 3/4 inch solid maple, all the joints are dovetailed, and the screw is a very hefty shoulder vise screw from Lee Valley. Not pictured is a custom set of backing boards that screw into the front edge for backing the spine of casebound books. I am so excited about this press, as soon as our new apartment is all set up I think I will try it out and see what it can do. And maybe tomorrow I will update with some better photos.