My headband press hinge gave out mid-project last night

I was pressing the final section of a quarter leather binding, and the whole arm just dropped with a loud crack. I had to finish the job by stacking heavy books on it overnight, which worked but wasn't ideal. Has anyone found a good way to repair a press like this, or is it time to just replace it?

2 comments

2 Comments

smith.blair1mo ago

Honestly that's the worst feeling, hearing that crack when you're almost done. Tbh I've had good luck fixing a similar break with heavy duty epoxy and some metal brackets from the hardware store, just to reinforce it. Let it cure for a full day before you put any real pressure on it again. Might be worth a shot before you drop cash on a whole new press.

mitchell.daniel1mo ago

Ever try to fix something like that and have it just give out again later? I used to think quick fixes were fine, but @smith.blair's epoxy and bracket idea actually held up for me. Changed my mind about trying to save broken gear.