Abstract: A platen for printers is disclosed. The platen has a tubular resilient sleeve with an outer cylindrical circumferential surface. Shaft means is contained within the sleeve. The shaft means has portions exposed at the ends of the sleeve which are concentrically aligned with the sleeve's outer surface. A molded in place core fills the space between the sleeve and shaft means to connect the two together and to prevent their relative rotation. The method of manufacturing the platen includes filling the sleeve with moldable plastic material and subjecting the plastic to a curing operation while holding the shaft portions in concentrically aligned position relative to the outer surface of the sleeve.