Kwik Set: Revolutionizing Leather Crafting

Erik DeMelo's Award-Winning Multi-Purpose Hand Press

The inspiration behind Kwik Set was to address two main issues for leather crafters: the limited capabilities of existing arbor presses and the challenge of storing bulky machinery. DeMelo's design increases the functionality of the traditional arbor press by integrating tasks such as cutting leather, stamping designs, and setting hardware into one streamlined machine.

What sets Kwik Set apart is its intuitive design and versatility. It allows users to cut leather, imprint or emboss designs, and set hardware with over 20 customized dies and adapters. The machine is user-friendly, featuring an adjustable collar, removable table plate, and single-handed operation. Its compact size and sleek aesthetic make it a perfect fit for any workspace.

The Kwik Set hand press is constructed from ASTM A 48 Class 40 gray cast iron, a material known for its high strength and durability. Critical components like the ram and bolt assembly are made from heat-treated steel. The integrated and removable table plate provides an excellent work surface, a feature not commonly found in similar machines.

Operating Kwik Set is straightforward. Users simply adjust the collar to accommodate different attachments and operations, and use the full stroke of the handle for each task. The handle comes to a complete stop when fully lowered, ensuring each function is properly performed. The removable table plate serves as a fence guide and backing for stamping and embossing operations.

DeMelo's design process, which took place from February 2015 to January 2016 at Ivan Leathercraft Headquarters in Taipei, Taiwan, involved extensive market and patent research. The team tested and evaluated competitive samples for functionality, performance, and price points. The result is a user-friendly, high compression arbor press that not only meets user needs but also enhances the typical industrial machine aesthetic and scale.

In recognition of its innovative design and functionality, Kwik Set was awarded Silver in the A' Prosumer Products, Tools, and Machinery Design Award in 2017. This prestigious award is given to designs that demonstrate outstanding expertise, innovation, and artistic skill.