Abstract: A method of dispensing a metal-backed printing blanket onto a printing press cylinder in a controlled fashion is provided. A carton containing the rolled printing blanket may be provided, and a lengthwise slit or opening is opened to withdraw a mounting end of the printing blanket. The alignment and tension of the printing blanket is controlled as it mounts on the printing press cylinder. Parallel reference lines on the carton may be used to draw alignment marks on the printing blanket such that it may be properly inserted into a locking device of the printing press cylinder. The alignment and tension may be controlled using graspable sides of the carton.

Abstract: A rotary anvil is outfitted with pins protruding from the base of an axially extending channel along the surface of the anvil. A cutting mat having a generally elongate body includes first and second locking members projecting from opposite axial ends thereof. The cutting mat is installed on the anvil such that the first and second locking members are positioned within the channel over one of the pins. The cutting mat may include a foot extending from the first locking member that includes a pin receptacle that seats down over the pin. Alternatively, a lockup device may be provided to temporarily secure the cutting mat to the rotary anvil. The lockup device includes a pin receptacle on the bottom surface thereof adapted to seat down over the pin. The first and second locking members of the cutting mat are then installed into the channel in cooperation with the lockup device.