Hello SMC,

I'm brand new here, as I was referred to this site by Joe from VeneerSupplies.com this morning. I was trying to figure out what a good way to press veneers into skateboard shapes would be, and my first thought was to try a vacuum bag. As I'm looking into it more, I realize that a vacuum bag just isn't going to cut it for me. I'm also realizing that a hydraulic press would be perfect for what I'm trying to do. However, being a 21-year old in college, I don't exactly have the funds to go buying a hydraulic press.

This brings me to my question. Does anyone here know how to build their own press, with say, some crank-down clamps to apply the pressure? Or, if anyone knows how to make a cheaper hydraulic one, that would be even better. Any help would be extremely appreciated, as my friends and I are really trying to make these skateboards for a living. So again, thank you for your time, I can't tell you how much I appreciate help.

Ian F.