Hand Hammered Copper Wrap Drawer Pull

What is a Fly Press?

A fly press is a type of screw press machine used to shape metal by deforming it with punches and dies. The screw press was invented by the Romans in the first century A.D. primarily used for wine & olive oil production. Later used as a printing press in the mid-15thcentury. The French started using the screw press for stamping coins for the mint. Over time it became an invaluable tool for a variety of metal working applications. During the 1920’s a number of factories sprung up in the Midlands producing fly presses as we now know them. Blacksmiths started to use them, once they realized the versatility of this tool. Manufacturers in Rhode Island sadly closed their doors approximately 50 years ago. In the UK all but one manufacturer closed their doors around this time. Norton fly presses are still made to this day, as there is still a demand for this old technology. A lot of these older presses built in the last century are still in circulation today and are still in good shape. With a little maintenance they should offer many more years of service because they are a viable, robust, versatile piece of shop equipment.