“Since 2020, my Conrad E-15 Etching Press has been the heart of my printmaking studio. I rely on it for both linocut and woodcut block printing, and it streamlines my workflow by making the entire process remarkably smooth. With every single pull, I get consistently crisp prints. I love the ease of use, the minimal maintenance, and the undeniable high-quality craftsmanship of the machine.”
– Courtney Smith
Ramblin’ Toad Press
Take a closer look.
The Conrad E-15 etching press is the only true professional grade 15″ x 30″ tabletop intaglio press. Engineered to the same precision, strength, and durability as large floor model presses, the E-15 offers oversized rollers, multiple drive options, and several bed plate configurations for your printing preferences.
This portable table top press has been a centerpiece for academic and professional printmaking studios as well as traveling artists around the world for 50+ years. The E-15 gives you the consistent pressure, smooth operation, and dependable results of a floor model press, while weighing as little as 65 lbs.
With a printing capacity of 15″ x 30″ paper, you’ll have space for bigger plates, wider paper margins, or more flexible studio projects.
Take a closer look at the E-15 press features to see why it’s the best press for you.
Press Planetary Geared Reduction Drive System
Smoooooooth Operator.
The Conrad planetary reduction drive is one of the defining features of Conrad etching presses. First developed by Conrad Machine Co. in the 1950s, this proven drive system has helped provide smooth, reliable printing for more than 65 years on thousands of Conrad presses ranging from compact 12″ tabletop models to large 50″ professional studio presses.
Conrad Press Planetary Gear Drive
The Conrad Press planetary gear reduction drive is designed to increase turning power while keeping the drive system compact, efficient, and easy to control. Inside the drive, multiple gears work together to reduce speed and multiply torque.
For printmakers, that means the press turns smoothly and comfortably, even when printing under the heavy pressure required for intaglio work. This makes the Conrad planetary gear drive especially valuable on tabletop presses.
Unlike bulky chain drive systems, the planetary reduction drive delivers direct, controlled torque in a compact package with fewer exposed parts and less maintenance. The result is a press that feels easier to operate, more predictable through the full rotation, and smoother under pressure. Instead of struggling to pull prints under heavy pressures, the drive helps create a steady, controlled printing motion from start to finish.
The 6:1 gear ratio provides an ideal balance of strength and speed. It gives the press the torque needed to move through high-pressure printing comfortably, while still allowing the bed to travel efficiently without feeling slow or over-geared. This balance is especially important on tabletop presses, where space, control, and ease of operation all matter.
Are All Presses Geared?
Some presses advertise “gearing,” but that’s often an advertising misnomer. Many presses that claim this simple install an underrated gear on a handle and another on the press roller. This setup doesn’t provide the torque or control needed for real, heavy-pressures.
The Conrad planetary drive stands apart as a true reduction system, designed specifically for professional printmaking. It delivers smooth, even power, precise control, and long-term reliability—ensuring consistent results across decades of use and countless prints.
Conrad Drive Options
Hand Crank
Matched with the Conrad planetary gear reduction drive, the 10-inch polished aluminum hand crank is designed to maximize leverage and improve overall control.
The extended length provides greater mechanical advantage, making it easier to apply torque with less effort. Combined with its solid aluminum construction, the crank delivers a smooth, sturdy, and dependable feel—ensuring consistent performance and comfort through every rotation.
Spoked Wheel
As an alternative to a traditional hand crank, Conrad offers an open spoked wheel that provides greater leverage and a more natural turning motion.
Instead of rotating a crank through both upward and downward motions, the spoked wheel allows the operator to keep pulling downward on the spokes as the wheel turns. This creates a smoother, easier motion that many artist find more accessible, especially those with shoulder, arm, wrist, or mobility concerns.
With 15″ spokes creating a 30″ overall wheel diameter, the larger turning radius gives the operator more mechanical advantage with less effort. The open design also allows the wheel to be engaged from multiple positions, making the press easier and more comfortable to operate during longer printing sessions.
Unlike an enclosed captain’s wheel, the open spoked design provides better access around the press bed while still delivering excellent control. The result is a smoother, more ergonomic, and more accessible operating experience for artists, schools, and studios.
Enclosed Captain’s Wheel
Conrad also offers an enclosed captain’s wheel for printmakers who want greater control and a more comfortable operating experience than a traditional hand crank can provide.
The 20″ circular wheel design allows the operator to grip and turn the press from multiple hand positions, making it easier to apply steady, consistent force with less strain. This larger turning surface gives the press a smooth, controlled feel, especially during longer print sessions or repeated passes.
In addition to improving comfort and control, the enclosed captain’s wheel adds a classic studio look to the press. It is practical, ergonomic, and undeniably satisfying to use.
Who doesn’t want to be a captain!?!?
Press Models
E-15 Standard vs Deluxe
E-15 Standard
The E-15 Standard press is built with an open spoked wheel mounted directly to the lower roll.
The 15″ spokes provide strong, comfortable leverage, giving printmakers the control needed to pull prints smoothly across the full width of the press bed. This configuration makes the E-15 Standard a more affordable option while still delivering the print quality, pressure capability, and reliability expected from a Conrad press.
From lighter relief printing to demanding intaglio work, the E-15 Standard is capable of handling a wide range of printmaking techniques and pressure requirements.
For printmakers who prefer the feel of a hand crank, the E-15 Deluxe model allows for that.
E-15 Deluxe
The E-15 Deluxe press is designed for printmakers who prefer the feel and control of a traditional hand crank. It features the proprietary Conrad planetary gear reduction drive, paired with a 10″ hand crank machined from solid aluminum and polished to a brilliant finish.
Mounted to the upper roll, the fully enclosed Conrad drive system delivers a compact, smooth, and controlled printing experience. The planetary gearing multiplies torque, making the hand crank easier to operate under the heavier pressures often required for intaglio printing.
Because a hand crank does not provide the same natural leverage as an open spoked wheel or captain’s wheel, proper gear reduction is essential for serious printmaking. The E-15 Deluxe gives you that added mechanical advantage in a clean, reliable package.
For artists who want the classic feel of a hand crank with the power and smoothness of a true reduction drive, the E-15 Deluxe is the ideal choice.
Pressure System
Spring Balanced. Perfect Feel.
The pressure system defines how a printmaking press performs. All Conrad Presses utilize a spring-assisted pressure system to deliver smooth, consistent, and highly controlled pressure with every pass.
Spring Assisted
Spring counterbalanced systems are a luxury in the world of printmaking, providing better, more consistent results with every print.
A spring counterbalanced system eliminates backlash by keeping constant tension on the upper roll. Backlash—small amounts of unwanted movement or play in the pressure screws—makes it difficult to dial in accurate pressure.
By keeping the system loaded and engaged at all times, the spring balance ensures that every adjustment on your dial is direct, immediate, and predictable, giving the printmaker better control and more consistent results.
Due to their added manufacturing costs, other companies choose not to use a spring assisted design, cutting corners and opting for cheaper alternatives like bolting bearings directly to the pressure screws. This leaves the printmaker with inconsistent and unpredictable pressure settings at every turn.
Custom Bearing Blocks
Conrad presses feature custom-engineered bearing blocks designed specifically for the demands of printmaking. These components are built to support smooth roller movement while maintaining proper alignment under load.
Unlike off-the-shelf, store-bought solutions from other companies, Conrad bearing blocks are tailored to handle the unique stresses of printmaking and press operations. The result is a machine that runs quieter, feels smoother, and maintains better accuracy over years of consistent use.
Solid Square Uprights
Supporting the entire system are thick, solid square uprights that provide the structural strength needed to resist flex under pressure. These uprights allow the bearing blocks to operate securely within the frame, helping maintain alignment throughout the printing process.
When pressure is applied, the frame remains rigid, keeping the rollers and bed properly aligned. This ensures even pressure across the full printing surface and contributes to long-term durability.
The result is a press that delivers consistent performance and dependable results, print after print.
Press Bed Plates
Flat Out Better Printing.
Composite Bed
Durability meets functionality.
A flat, light-weight, & durable material ideal for printing.
Aluminum Bed
Light weight for heavy pressure.
Get the advantages of a metal bed while reducing the weight.
Steel Bed
Ultimate precision and longevity.
A machined flat finish giving you the ultimate reliable printing surface.
Scroll to explore more – – – >
Press Rolls
Bigger Rolls. Smoother Pulls.
Roll size has a big impact on how a press performs—and in printmaking, larger rolls make a noticeable difference.
A bigger diameter allows the roll to ease onto the plate more gradually, rather than hitting it abruptly. That smoother transition helps the press move more fluidly over plates, blankets, and paper, resulting in more consistent pressure and greater overall control.
Conrad E-15 Upper Roll Options
Standard 4.5″ Roll – Tubular Steel
Conrad presses come standard with a 4.5″ upper roll, which delivers strong, dependable performance across a wide range of printmaking techniques. This roll is fabricated from structural steel tubing with solid steel end plugs, giving it the strength needed to generate high pressure without bending or flexing. Combined with thick 1.5″ bearing shafts, it provides the rigidity required to handle demanding print work with consistency.
For most studios, the standard roll is a reliable, all-around option—well suited for everything from relief printing to more pressure-intensive intaglio processes.
Oversized 5.5″ Roll – Solid Aluminum
For printmakers looking to push performance even further, Conrad also offers a 5.5″ oversized upper roll. The increased diameter creates an even smoother ride over the plate, especially under higher pressure, and helps reduce the effort required to operate the press.
This oversized roll is precision machined from high-strength aluminum, making it significantly lighter than a solid steel roller, while remaining extremely durable and resistant to corrosion. Despite the weight savings, it maintains excellent rigidity and stands up to heavy printing pressures without bending or flexing. The result is improved consistency—particularly with larger plates or more demanding setups—and a more confident, controlled feel with every pass.
Whether you choose the standard or oversized option, Conrad rolls are built to deliver smooth operation, even pressure, and professional-quality results you can rely on.
Conrad E-15 Upper Roll Size Comparison
Micro-Gauge Dials
Precision. Without the Guesswork.
One of the most popular upgrades we offer is the micrometer gauge–and for good reason. It makes setting and repeating precise pressure adjustments simple and reliable.
Our micrometer gauge uses a barrel-and-thimble design, calibrated to .005 inch per line. That level of precision allows you to fine-tune each pressure screw by roughly the thickness of a human hair, giving you exceptional control over your settings.
For printmakers who value accuracy and repeatability, Conrad micro gauges set the standard in the industry—making it easier to dial in the perfect pressure and return to it whenever you need.
Each adjustment is clearly measured, making it simple to return to the same pressure for edition printing or to make small, precise changes when fine-tuning a print. This level of control is especially valuable when moving between processes like intaglio, relief, or monotype, where plate thickness and pressure requirements can vary.
Micrometer gauges also help maintain even pressure across the press, reducing the risk of one side printing heavier than the other. On tabletop presses, where precision and efficiency are key, micrometers provide an added level of control that improves consistency, saves time, and leads to more reliable results with every print.
Conrad E-15 without Micrometer Gauges
Conrad is the only press manufacturers that gives artists the flexibility to choose whether or not to include micrometer gauges on their press.
For some printmakers, gauges simply aren’t necessary—especially if they consistently work with the same plate size and thickness and don’t need to adjust pressure often. That’s why we offer the option to configure your press to match your specific workflow and preferences.
For presses without micrometer gauges, the pressure screws are equipped with a locking nut. This allows you to set your desired pressure once and secure it in place, making it easy to return to the same setting for consistent results over time.
Press Frame
Strong Frame. Strong Game.
The E-15 press base is constructed from heavy-gauge steel that is riveted and bolted together—similar to aircraft construction—to create a rigid box-section frame. This design resists twisting and tipping, providing a stable foundation during operation.
The E-15 is a fully-framed press, so the press bed does not hang off the frame drastically in one direction or the other, offering complete support across the entire printing surface.
The vertical uprights are precision machined from thick, solid square aluminum and mounted in perfect parallel alignment. This ensures long-term durability while allowing the press to deliver accurate, consistent pressure.
To further enhance performance, the frame, pressure screws, bearing blocks, and lower roll adjustment screws are all aligned along a common center line. This eliminates unwanted flex or distortion under load, keeping the press stable and maintaining even pressure—even during high-pressure printing.
Press Bearings
Smooth Moves Only.
The Conrad E-15 press is equipped with large 1.5″ diameter roller bushings designed to keep the rolls properly lubricated, even under heavy printing pressure.
These high-quality, anti-friction bushings offer a lower coefficient of friction than traditional bronze bushings, allowing the rolls to turn more smoothly and with less resistance. They are also rated to handle loads well beyond what’s typically encountered in printmaking, providing an added margin of durability and reliability.
Each bushing is fitted into custom bearing blocks engineered specifically for printmaking applications. This combination has been refined over decades and delivers consistently smooth, easy operation—even under demanding printing conditions.
Conrad E-15 for the Classroom
Conrad. Teach. Create. Repeat.
The Conrad E-15 tabletop press is designed to eliminate the gap between portability and professional performance. You no longer need to sacrifice quality for portability’s sake.
With a larger capacity and increased strength compared to smaller tabletop presses, the E-15 delivers the precision, smooth operation, and pressure control serious printmakers expect—while still fitting into a compact studio footprint. It’s built to handle a wide range of techniques, from light relief printing to demanding intaglio work, making it an ideal choice for artists, educators, and institutions alike.
Whether it’s used in a classroom, shared studio, or private workspace, the E-15 offers the durability to withstand heavy use and the accuracy needed for consistent, high-quality prints. Its versatility makes it a reliable press that can grow with the user, adapting to different techniques, experience levels, and studio demands.
Who is the Conrad E-15 For?
Educators and Students
The E-15 is well-suited for classroom environments where presses must be both durable and easy to use. Its intuitive operation makes it accessible for students learning printmaking, while its robust construction ensures it can handle repeated use in a teaching environment. It gives educators a dependable tool for demonstrating a full range of techniques with consistent results.
Art Institutions, Co-Ops, & Print Shops
In shared studio environments, the E-15 offers the size and strength needed for frequent use by multiple artists. Its larger capacity allows for more flexibility in plate size, while its reliable performance ensures consistent results across different users. Whether it’s a primary press in a smaller shop or a supplemental press in a larger facility, it fits easily into a busy workflow.
Professional Printmakers
For professional printmakers, the E-15 provides serious performance in a tabletop format. It offers the pressure control and smooth operation required for detailed intaglio work, while remaining compact enough for studios where space is limited. It’s a strong option for producing editions, experimenting with techniques, or adding a versatile second press to a professional setup.
Experienced Artists & New Printmakers
The E-15 is equally valuable for experienced artists and those just starting out. New printmakers benefit from its approachable design, consistent performance, and ease of transport, making it an excellent choice to learn proper press techniques. Experienced artists will appreciate its precision, durability, and ability to handle a wide range of printmaking methods, making it a long-term investment that supports growth and experimentation.
Conrad E-15 Printing Capabilities
Print it all.
Conrad E-15. Highly versatile.
The Conrad E-15 is the perfect press to print almost any style of printmaking. From less pressure intensive work like monotype prints to heavy pressure photogravure, the E-15 can do it all.
The Conrad E-15 Etching Press can easily print the following media:
- Monotypes
- Wood blocks
- Linocuts (mounted & unmounted)
- Type high blocks
- Letterpress
- Drypoints
- Engravings
- Intaglio/Etchings (copper, zinc, etc.)
- Photogravure/Photopolymer
- Collagraphs
- Plate lithography
Press Warranty
Built to last a lifetime.
All Conrad Machine Co. Presses come with the printmaking industry’s best 25-Year Warranty. At Conrad Machine Co., we believe in our products and workmanship, so much so, that we will repair or replace any defects in materials or workmanship for the first 25 years of the life of your printmaking press.
Press Specs.
| Overall Press Dimensions: | 22” x 24” x 13” |
| Press Frame Dimensions: | 18″ x 24″ |
| Maximum Paper Size: | 15″ x 30″ |
| Maximum Plate Size: | 14.25″ x 28″ (based on bedplate choice) |
| Maximum Plate Thickness: | 1.25″ |
| Bed Height of Frame (Working Height): | 5″ |
| Bed Height (Working Height) on Stand/Workbench: | 34.5″ |
| Stand/Workbench Height: | 29.5″ |
| Open Spoked Wheel (Standard Model): | 14.75″ Spokes (Total of 30″ Diameter Open Wheel) |
| Geared Reduction Drive (Deluxe Model): | Geared Reduction Drive with 10″ Polished Aluminum Handle |
| Enclosed Star Wheel (Captain’s Wheel): | 20” Diameter |
| Standard Upper Roll: | 4.5” Diameter Tubular Steel |
| Standard Lower Roll: | 2.25” Diameter Solid Steel |
| Oversized Upper Roll: | 5.5″ Diameter Solid Aluminum |
| Composite Bed Dimensions: | 15” x 30” x 1/2” |
| Aluminum Bed Dimensions: | 15” x 30” x 1/2” |
| Steel Bed Dimensions: | 15” x 30” x 1/2” |
| Press Weights: | E-15 Standard with composite bed: 87 lbs. E-15 Standard with aluminum bed: lbs. E-15 Standard with steel bed: lbs. E-15 Deluxe with composite bed: 90 lbs. E-15 Deluxe with aluminum bed: lbs. E-15 Deluxe with steel bed: lbs. |
Press Accessories
Conrad E-15 Press Essentials.
Printmaking is a complete system, and the Conrad E-15 tabletop press performs best when paired with the right tools from the start. Every part of the process—from inking to wiping to printing—works together to produce clean, consistent, professional results.
Essential items like felt blankets, tarlatan, brayers, inking rollers, and high-quality inks and papers all have a direct impact on print quality. Proper blankets help distribute pressure evenly across your plates, tarlatan ensures controlled plate wiping, and well-made inking rollers provide smooth, even ink application. Starting with the right materials reduces guesswork and allows you to focus on printing instead of troubleshooting.
Conrad offers a full line of press accessories and studio supplies designed to work together, making it easy to build a complete and reliable workflow around your E-15. With the right setup in place, you’ll get better prints, more consistent results, and a smoother, more efficient studio experience from day one.
Press Stand / Workbench
A rock-solid foundation is critical for any tabletop press, and the right stand makes a noticeable difference in performance. Conrad press stands are built with all-steel construction, providing the strength and rigidity needed to support the E-15 under pressure.
The properly sized stand (21″W x 40″L x 29″H) prevents wobbling, shifting, or vibration during printing, which helps maintain even pressure and consistent results. Built for the ideal working height of 34.5″, our press stand is offered with or without caster wheels without changing the working height.
Printmaking Felt Blankets
Felt blankets are essential for proper intaglio printing because they help distribute pressure evenly across the plate and paper. High-quality blankets allow the paper to be pushed into the recessed lines of the plate, improving detail and ink transfer.
Using the right blanket set also protects both the plate and the press while ensuring consistent results across every print. A good set of blankets is one of the most important tools in achieving professional-quality prints.
Registration Grid & Protective Bed Cover
A registration grid and protective bed cover help keep your printing process accurate and your press in good condition. The grid makes it easier to align plates and paper consistently, which is especially important for multi-layer prints or editions.
At the same time, the protective bed cover shields the press bed from scratches, ink, and wear, helping preserve its flatness and longevity. Together, they improve both workflow and equipment protection.
Printmaking Supplies Perfect for E-15
Having the right printmaking supplies in your studio helps create a smooth, efficient printmaking process, so you can focus on printing, not problem-solving.
Start your complete professional studio setup with Conrad Press supplies:
- Hand Inking Brayers
- Tarlatan
- Printmaking Plates
- Printmaking Paper
- Printmaking Inks
Get an E-15 Press
There’s never been
a better time to print.
Bring professional printmaking performance into your studio or classroom with the Conrad E-15 tabletop etching press.
For printmakers who need a serious press in a manageable size, the E-15 offers the perfect balance of professional capability and studio-friendly convenience.
Shop Conrad E-15 Press NowFAQ
The Conrad E-15 can accommodate 15” x 30” paper, including A3 paper, based on bed choice.
The Conrad E-15 can print a 14.25” wide x 28” long plate, depending on desired print borders and bed/roller composition.
You can easily clean the upper roll on your E-15 with scotch brite.
The E-15 Deluxe etching press is an upper roll driven press, so the press must be under pressure to move the bed with the drive.
No, you do not need micro gauges to adjust the pressure or print with your E-15 etching press. Without gauges, you can adjust the pressure by feel.
You can use a scotch brite pad or #0000 steel wool to remove any surface rust on the E-15 press upper roll. In a shoe-shine motion, rub the upper roll in the direction of the turning marks to polish the roll and remove rust.
You can use mineral spirits or similar solvent to clean ink and dirt from your E-15 rolls. Do not use water based products, as they can cause surface rust to develop over time.
