Hectograph:

The hectograph was used in duplicating/copying machines, principally for stencils and copying in schools in the 1930s. Its pan had a gel in it and used purple ink.

Here are some instructions for making your own hectograph pad. These instructions originally came from the George L. Armstrong Public School in Hamilton, Ontario.

Recipe:

1 shallow cookie pan
1/4 pint enamel (paint?)
2 ounces sheet gelatin
8 ounces commercial glycerine

Enamel the pan inside and out. Dry thoroughly. Cover the gelatin with cold water and allow it to stand for a few hours.

Add the glycerine. Simmer for 1 1/2 hours over a slow fire (low heat?) Pour into the pan, which has been placed on a level table.

Draw any bubbles to the edge of the pan and break the bubbles. Allow to set for 2 days before using.

If the pad is too sticky, melt it down (do not boil) and pour it back into the pan.

How to Use:

To make a master copy, use two sheets of paper with hectograph carbon in between, Type material and use carbon copy as master. Dampen the surface of the pad. Transfer copy to surface by placing type side down, and smoothing. Let stand 1/2 minute then peel off.

To make a copy, lay hard-surface paper carefully over printed section and rub lightly with hand.

Cover pad with plastic wrap and store in a dry place. If pad becomes marked, set pan over hot water until it melts smooth again.

Unless the pad is needed for a new design do not wash it off. To wash off the design use a soft cloth wrung from hot water. This may leave the surface uneven.

For a different method (with varying formulas) for making a hectograph pad, please contact the library. The library also has formulas for making different coloured inks to use with the hectograph pad.

Sources:

Patron . November 1991.

Western Producer?.

Henley's Twentieth Century Formulas , Processes and Trade Secrets. 1937. 395-396.

Notes: