“I really like the Conrad press bed cover because it protects the surface while still letting me use a registration grid underneath. Being able to see the grid through the cover makes printing easy without sacrificing protection.”
-Don Patterson,
Artist/ Printmaker
Take a closer look.
The Conrad press bed cover is a simple upgrade that adds both protection and precision to your printmaking setup. Made from durable, clear polycarbonate, it shields your press bed from scratches, ink, and everyday wear while maintaining a perfectly smooth working surface.
Because the material is crystal clear, you can place a registration grid underneath and still see it clearly during printing. This makes alignment faster, more accurate, and easier to repeat—especially for edition work.
Built to handle real studio use, the cover is tough, long-lasting, and easy to work with—giving you a cleaner press bed and a more efficient workflow every time you print.
Conrad Press Protective Bed Cover Design
So Clean. So Clear.
The Conrad press bed cover isn’t just a protective sheet, it’s built specifically for the way printmakers actually work.
Every detail is designed with the process in mind. It works seamlessly with typical studio workflows. The cover protects the bed from ink, splits, and debris, while still allowing for quick setup changes, easy cleanup, and repeatable positioning for edition printing.
Bed Protection
A Conrad bed cover acts as a protective layer between your press bed and everything you run through it. It helps prevent scratches, dents, and ink buildup, keeping your bed in top condition and extending the life of your press.
Professionally Mounted
Each Conrad bed cover is professionally mounted to your press bed to create a secure, stable working surface. This mounting method holds both the cover and your registration grid firmly in place, so nothing shifts during printing—giving you consistent alignment from print to print.
At the same time, the design is built with flexibility in mind. One side of the cover is intentionally left accessible, allowing you to slide in a custom grid or swap layouts whenever your project requires it.
Easy Clean up
With a bed cover in place, cleanup becomes quick and simple. Instead of worrying about ink or debris getting onto the press bed itself, you can just wipe down the surface of the cover, saving time and keeping your workspace cleaner.
Registration Grid Compatible
Because the cover is clear polycarbonate, you can place a registration grid underneath and still see it perfectly. This allows for accurate alignment and repeatable positioning, making it easier to produce consistent prints—especially when working on editions.
Conrad Press Protective Bed Cover Advantages
Protection. Versatility.
Conrad press bed covers not only look awesome, but they offer several tons of great benefits. Here are few different advantages of getting a press bed cover:
- Extends Press Life: Reduces wear and damage to the bed
- Protects again foreign objects: Protects the bed from accidental objects running through the press
- Secures Registration Grid: Secures a Conrad Press registration grid to your bed for consistent printing registration.
- Easier Cleanup: Simplifies maintenance after printing
- Cost-Effective: Prevents expensive repairs or replacements
These advantages make bed covers a practical investment for any printmaking studio.
Conrad Printmaking Press Bed Cover Sizes
Ooooooh the Possibilities.
Every Conrad bed cover is custom made to match the exact size of your press, so you get a perfect fit—no gaps, no shifting, and no guesswork.
From small tabletop presses to large floor model machines, each cover is cut and finished to the precise dimensions of the bed. This ensures full coverage and proper alignment, no matter the size of your setup.
Because it’s made specifically for your press, the cover sits flat, secure, and ready to work, giving you the same level of protection and precision across every size press.
Get a Conrad Printmaking Press Bed Cover
There’s never been
a better time to print.
Keep your press in top condition while improving your workflow with a Conrad protective bed cover. With durable construction and clear visibility for registration, it’s the easiest way to get cleaner setups and more consistent prints.
Choose your custom size and upgrade your press today—order your Conrad bed cover and print with confidence.
Shop Conrad Printmaking Bed Covers NowWhat Are Printmaking Press Protective Bed Covers?
Printmaking press protective bed covers are thin, durable sheets placed on the bed of a printmaking press to protect both the press and the materials being printed. These covers act as a barrier between the press bed and the printing plate, paper, or blankets, helping prevent scratches, ink transfer, moisture damage, and general wear over time.
While often overlooked, protective bed covers are an essential part of maintaining a printmaking press. They help ensure consistent print quality, extend the life of expensive equipment, and create a cleaner, more controlled working environment.
The Purpose of Press Bed Covers
The primary purpose of a press bed cover is to protect the surface of the press bed, which is typically made of polished steel or another smooth material. Over time, repeated use without protection can lead to scratches, dents, and ink buildup.
Press bed covers serve several important functions:
- Surface Protection: Prevents scratches and damage from plates or debris
- Cleanliness: Keeps ink, oil, and moisture off the press bed
- Consistency: Provides a smooth, uniform surface for printing
- Material Protection: Shields paper and blankets from contamination
By acting as a buffer layer, bed covers help maintain both the press and the quality of printed work.
Materials Used for Protective Bed Covers
Conrad bed covers are made from high-quality polycarbonate while lesser quality bed covers are made from mylar or acetate.
Do not use acrylic for a bed cover, as it is a brittle material that will crack under pressure.
How to Secure a Press Bed Cover to Your Press
All Conrad press bed covers are professionally mounted and installed directly to the press bed at the factory.
If you are buying a bed cover for an existing press, there are several ways to install it yourself. You can tape the bed cover to the bed in the corner or drill and tap the bed to bolt the bed cover down.
Care and Maintenance
To keep your press bed cover in good condition, you should clean it regularly and avoid using harsh chemicals.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a press bed cover used for?
Printmaking protective press beds protect the press bed from scratches, ink, and moisture while providing a smooth printing surface.
What material is best for bed covers?
Polycarbonate is the best material for press bed covers due to its durability and transparency.
Do all printmakers use bed covers?
Most do, especially in professional studios, to maintain equipment and print quality.
Can you reuse a press bed cover?
Yes, durable covers like Mylar can be reused many times with proper care.
Is a bed cover necessary for all printing techniques?
While not always required, it is highly recommended for protecting the press and improving consistency.
