I build six "Old School" drying screens

[John Kasaian]

I came across some better grained screen bead and tried to darken them up a bit with Norwich Pine stain. Not perfect but close enough.

[AtlantaTerry]

When I need some 20x30 inch drying screens I go to an art supply store where they sell pre-cut lengths of unfinished wood stretcher strips (normally used by artists to attach canvas).

Each 30" stretcher costs USD $2.89. The 20" costs USD $1.79.

They are already made with a dovetail cut on each end (I think that is the term). Since they are already cut you simply slide them together with a bit of glue in place. Then check for them to be square and set them aside to dry. Paint if you like, but it is not needed. When the glue is dry wrap with Fiberglas screening from one side to the other and staple in place.

Quick, cheap and only a few simple tools needed. Cost: about USD $10 each.

http://shop.hobbylobby.com/products/...-strip-592105/
http://shop.hobbylobby.com/products/...-strip-592188/

[bob carnie]

John
I made these about 6 years ago, they stand up to heavy use, to dry a complete show I have 7 of these, I place small 2 x4 chuncks on each corner and stack layer on layer, with prints face down
this way the air gets in between and my print air dry overnight.

I am 60 and think I will still be able to handle these screens by myself for years, simple design , I clean them every few months with scalding hot water.
They stand in a corner when not in use so for me its a wonderful system. the Black mesh is purchased at home depot, as you note they are pretty big and need braces which I use 1x 2 strapping.

I started with the Zone V1 screens years ago and they are not as robust as these big boys.

My dog barney took these pictures btw.