Abstract: A preferred screen printing press (10) includes a plurality of print stations each having a print head (64) in registration with a platen (26) with the print head and platen being shiftable between a spaced position and a print position, and further includes a substrate handling assembly (20) for shifting a substrate from one printing station to another. The preferred press (10) also includes a plurality of curing stations each including a curing platen (28) and a heater for heating the platen to a selected ink curing temperature. The preferred print head (64) includes a lifting mechanism in the nature of air cylinders (96, 98) for applying a constant lifting force to the rearward edge of a print screen (94) in order to lift the screen (94) under this constant force and as the squeegee (104) moves therealong.

Abstract: A heat transfer machine is provided with upper and lower platens and a compound linkage which permits one motion opening and closing as well as application of a large compression force to the platens. The linkage automatically toggles between a primary linkage configuration and a secondary linkage configuration upon movement of a lever arm by the machine operator. The primary linkage configuration allows the upper platen to be opened and closed while the secondary linkage configuration permits application of the compressive force to the platens.

Abstract: A script lettering system is provided using individual, die cut alphabet letter characters which are especially adapted for bonding to a fabric backing such as on a tee shirt. The letters are formed of material including synthetic resin substance and are configured for complemental, script-type interconnection in any desired order to form words or expressions, without the necessity of individually modifying the configuration of the letters. Additionally, the letters are formed and configured such that application of heat and pressure serves to bond the letters to a fabric backing, and also to render the synthetic resin substance of the letters partially flowable to thereby blend the originally discrete letters into a unified, integral expression and substantially eliminate lines of juncture between the letters.