Felted press wool is used in etching to provide cushioning between the plate and press roller. MES offer a range of 4 blanket thicknesses; 1.5mm, 3mm, 6mm and 9.5mm. Each thickness of blanket serves a different purpose:

1.5mm - Referred to as the Size Catcher or Fronting blanket this blanket goes next to the paper, It has the tightest weave to give you a smooth print as well as "catching" the size (glue) from the paper. As this is the blanket that will get damp when printing it is best to hang dry before storing.

3mm - The Cushion Blanket, this blanket adds cushioning for the plate while still allowing for sufficient pressure when printing. For Relief printing plates this blanket can go next to the paper where a thinner blanket is not required.

6mm - The Pusher Blanket, this blanket would traditionally go next to the roller. It is a hard wearing blanket being the thickest option. It is used in conjunction with a Catcher and Cushion blanket or as a great option when using thick collograph plates.

9.5mm - This thicker blanket option can be used as an alternative to 2 blankets when printing with built up collograph plates.

*Please note that these blankets may differ by +/- 10% in size.