My DIY book press collapsed after 40 uses

I built a wooden book press back in March using two oak boards and some threaded rod from the local hardware store in Toledo. It held fine for a while, but this past Saturday the bottom board split right down the middle while I was pressing a 300 page novel. I ended up clamping the whole mess together with bar clamps and finishing the job, but now I'm wondering if anyone has a solid plan for a press that won't give out on them. What wood thickness and hardware do you all trust for regular use?

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wesley80119d ago

Man, that really stinks! I feel for you, splitting a board right in the middle of a job is the worst kind of surprise. I'd say go with at least 1.5 inch thick hardwood for the platen and use 1/2 inch all-thread rods with heavy duty washers and lock nuts, that combo has held up for me.