Print-flattening board?

[Robert Bowring]

I agree with JMO. I use some scrap Corian countertop material.

[Mrportr8]

A piece of 1/4" acrylic is enough.

[Ulophot]

If you have nearby a place that makes custom kitchen and bath countertops in marble (etc.) they probably have some sink cut-outs of various sizes available that they will give you for FREE, so long as you take them away. Perfectly flat on both sides, heavy and inert - perfect for your purposes.

Hadn't considered this one. Nice idea, though the marble may be a bit on the heavy side for meat the size.

[Ulophot]

Just use a sheet of thick edged plate glass. Just about the worst thing you could do is spray paint metal. It will outgas for months with hydrocarbons bad for photos.

Thanks for the tip. Good to know.

[Ulophot]

There are dedicated weights made for this purpose, eg. https://www.usi-laminate.com/store/w...?idProduct=913

I'm pretty sure you could make something similar for less money. The handles are a nice touch.

Handles, yes. Less money, definitely! I could buy hundreds of sheets of paper for that price! Or a good bottle of wine.

[Ulophot]

Thanks to all for the great ideas. One of them is sure to work out perfectly for me.

[LabRat]

I flatten prints in a dry mounting press between a couple of pieces of rag board, but a trick I use is after press platen is lifted, I let the sandwich sit for at least 30 seconds to allow the surface to set, but don't disturb it until it does (until completely cool)...

Various places I worked had a 1/4" thick stainless steel weight that had handles screwed to the top, and that was easy and precise to use, heavy enough for weight, and stayed clean...

Steve K

[Light Guru]

How about a Granite Cutting Board?

https://www.amazon.com/HealthSmart-G...+cutting+board

[Drew Wiley]

Most plate steel has contaminants. My own lower surface is a piece of smooth melamine - relatively inert, with plate glass atop. Some (not all) drymount
tissues actually form their permanent bond during cooling. But most failures I see are due to people not properly pre-drying their print or mount board.

[Ron McElroy]

I use heavy glass to cool and flatten the prints. Glued on handles make it user friendly.