Below are instructions to help you make your own Model Lithographic Stone Press, with moving parts. Follow each step to assemble your press and print your Christmas card from all of us at The Curwen Studio.

You will need a sharp craft knife and strong quick drying glue, a length of cotton and 4x 2p or equivalent. All other pieces are provided.

Step 1

Cut out the small white circles on the sides.

Thread a piece of cotton (7cm long with a knot on the end) through the small white spot on the crosspiece, then glue together to form a triangle shape.

Step 2

Construct the carriage as shown and make a small cut marked by a black line on the edge of the top piece.

Step 3

Construct both the supports as below.

Step 4

Cut the kebab stick leaving two pieces measuring 6.5cm and 2cm. Tightly roll the grey strip around the longer kebab stick leaving one end protruding by 1cm and glue to form a roller shape. Next tie the rubber band on the roller as shown. Cut the white circle from the handle and make into an open ended box. Position 2cm kebab stick and glue as shown.

Step 5

Make up the lithographic stone into a box, before gluing shut; fill the box with 2 pence pieces to make it heavy. Cut and fold the Christmas card.

Step 6

You should now have all the pieces looking like this…

Step 7

To make your press, first position the roller shaft through the two holes in the press sides.

Step 8

Glue the larger support at the front of the press (the longer side) as shown, making sure it slopes down towards the roller.

Step 9

Repeat with the second support at the back of the press.

Step 10

This is how the underside should look with the supports and roller in position.

Step 11

Glue the handle onto the roller shaft.

Step 12

Place the carriage onto the press and open the tympan fully as shown. Attach the cotton thread into the cut on the tympan, making sure it is taught, and tape the excess to the other side.

Step 13

Position the stone and card on the carriage.

Step 14

This is how your press should look, turn the handle and print your own card!

The 1st person to send us a photograph of their completed model will win a prize.

Click here to view the finished press in action >>>