16 



BULLETIN 661, U. S. DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE. 



surfaced on all sides. The strips are cut in 26-inch lengths and 

 nailed crosswise to one another, allowing 1 inch between strips; the 

 dividing board is then 26 inches square and is suitable for the press 

 described. A smaller space than 1 inch between the strips makes 

 washing difficult, while a much larger one allows the curd to pro- 

 ject, which causes unsatisfactory pressing. For making the dividing 

 boards use good clear wood which can be washed easily. It is ad- 

 visable also to give all form-dividing boards at least two coats of raw 

 linseed oil before using, to reduce the water-retaining capacity of 

 the wood. The boards are kept wet while in use and unless oiled well 



., n 1-L i — i ~-i — i — n — i -" 



Fig. 7. — Dividing board and form used in putting the curd into the press clot lis. 



will soon become heavy with moisture. They must be scrubbed well 

 each day with hot water and a brush, to prevent offensive odors. 

 When lattice-stop strips cost 1.3 cents a linear foot, allowing for car- 

 penter's' time, the dividing boards of the size indicated can be made 

 for about 9") cents each. 



DRAIN AND PRESS CT.OTHS. 



Experience with several kinds of cloth, both for draining and 

 pressing the curd, has shown that certain kinds of material are to be 

 preferred. The drain cloth must be strong to prevent tearing in 

 manipulating the heavy wet curd, must allow easy drainage, and 

 must be easy to wash. Ordinary burlap makes a strong, serviceable 

 drain cloth which no doubt will outlast any other material. Cheese- 



