This video show the platen mechanism in action as a plate is being slid in to print.  The creaking is not from the wood, but from the compression of the screws under the pressure.  Maurice wishes to see if this can be 'removed,' but I rather like it.  Either way, it is not a bad sign!

Images of the first testing of the press at Maurice's house where the press was constructed.  I was initially testing a wood cut which had both large areas of solid and areas of detail to assess the capabilities of the press.  Our first testings were very successful, showing that the press is able to produce high pressure to print solid areas.  It was very interesting to work with the press because I have never used such a mechanism/design before and thus there were many little details that I had to get used to in order to work successfully with the press.  But, this is like and printing press.  They are all unique and all have their individual personalities that need to be understood.

A shot showing the side of the platen and pressure arm mechanism.  The springs are incredibly strong and even if I place my full weight onto the top platen, they hardly contract.  This illustrates how much pressure the mechanism is applying as they compress easily when using the lever.

A detail of the beech end to the pressure arm.  The beech is very hard wearing and will maintain its spherical shape.  The hole in the top platen serves both as a locating device and it also allows the beech end to roll in the hole as the pressure is applied, thus allowing the pressure arm to remain vertical.