Mid-State Litho supplies offset printing blankets, also called litho blankets, to print shops across Michigan and the Great Lakes. We sell and service press and bindery equipment, and have done so since 1984.
A lithograph blanket is the rubber-surfaced sheet that transfers the image from the plate to the paper. The blanket wears and needs packing. Poor release shows in the print before the press shows a problem. Most shops replace blankets on a schedule instead of at failure.
Blankets for Hamada and Sakurai presses
This collection lists three blankets: the Hamada 234 Series Under Blanket (Straight Cut), the Hamada DU34 Series Blanket, and the Sakurai 72 Apollo set.
- Hamada 234 Series Under Blanket (Straight Cut): $46.65.
- Hamada DU34 Series Blanket: $59.33.
- Sakurai 72 Apollo Blanket & Unison Underpacking Set: $150.00.
For other presses, we can quote blankets cut for most small-format and mid-format offset presses. Call 1-800-343-4231 with the press make and model. Include the size stamped on the current blanket, or send a photo of the bar.
Underpacking and blanket fit
The Sakurai set includes Unison underpacking. The blanket and packing set the printing height together. A blanket at the right gauge on the wrong packing can still print soft. Check the packing when you order a blanket on its own.
The Hamada 234 blanket is straight cut. It has no bars, and the press clamps it in place. Bar-mounted blankets fit the cylinder and lock into its gap. The two types are not interchangeable.
How to order the right blanket
Each blanket fits a specific cylinder. The Hamada 234 blanket does not fit a DU34 or a Sakurai. The press frame carries the model marking.
- Identify the press make and model.
- Check whether the press takes a straight-cut or bar-mounted blanket.
- Read the size and gauge on the back of the old blanket.
- If the markings are worn off, measure the blanket.
- Count the packing sheets.
- Check the packing before you replace a blanket to correct a print problem.
Straight-cut blankets have no hardware. The press clamps them in place. Bar-mounted blankets have metal bars swaged onto each end. These bars lock into the cylinder gap.
For help with the fit, call 1-800-343-4231 with the press model and the old blanket's markings. We can usually quote sizes that we do not stock.
For poor blanket release or ink buildup, see blanket wash and solvent. For water balance or scumming, see fountain solution. For other pressroom chemistry, see pressroom chemicals.
Related pressroom supplies include printing press ink and polyester printing plates. See offset spray powders for set-off control.
Offset printing blanket questions
What is the difference between a litho blanket and an offset printing blanket?
The terms describe the same part. A litho blanket, lithographic blanket, or offset blanket transfers the image from the plate to the paper on an offset press. Shops and manufacturers use these terms interchangeably.
How do I know which blanket fits my press?
The press make and model determine the blanket because each blanket fits a specific cylinder. The back of the old blanket usually shows the size and gauge. Call 1-800-343-4231 with the press model to confirm the size.
What is the difference between a bar-mounted blanket and a straight-cut blanket?
A bar-mounted blanket has metal bars swaged onto each end. The bars lock into the cylinder gap. A straight-cut blanket has no hardware, and the press clamps it in place. These types are not interchangeable. The Hamada 234 series blanket in this collection is straight cut.
Do I need to replace the underpacking when I replace the blanket?
Underpacking does not always need replacement. Check its condition. Blanket and packing set the printing height together. A new blanket on compressed packing can still print soft. The Sakurai 72 Apollo set includes Unison underpacking.
Do you stock blankets for presses other than Hamada and Sakurai?
This collection lists blankets for Hamada and Sakurai presses. We can quote blankets cut for most small-format and mid-format offset presses. Call 1-800-343-4231 with the press model and the markings on the current blanket.
For press service, see service and support. For blanket fit or a quote, contact Mid-State Litho or call 1-800-343-4231.