Brayer

nounStandard termPrinting

A small hand roller used to apply an even layer of ink to a printing surface.

A hand-held roller used to spread a thin, even film of ink over a block, plate, or imposing stone. It features a single handle attached to a frame holding a rubber or composition cylinder, making it essential for manual proofing and relief printing.

Heard on the job

Grab a clean brayer and roll out some black ink on the glass for a quick proof.

Insider tip

Always rest a brayer upside down on its metal frame to prevent flat spots from forming on the rubber roller.