Abstract: The present invention provides a press to apply pressure to a three dimensional shaped article. The three dimensional shaped object generally has a greater length and width than the dimension to be pressed, and is, for example, a laminate. The press comprises (a) a first horizontal pressing plate and a second horizontal pressing plate facing each other with a nip therebetween; (b) a flexible hollow member disposed against the first horizontal pressing plate on the side opposite the nip, said flexible hollow member being a part of a closed system containing a pressure medium and a mechanism for regulating the pressure of the pressure medium; and (c) an inflexible support behind the flexible hollow member, whereby upon a change of the pressure of the pressure medium, said first horizontal pressing plate is caused to move relative to the second pressing plate.