Printing: History, Types and Revolution

When I think of printing, more than ink on paper comes to mind. It is a revolutionary tool that, since the time of Gutenberg, has changed the way the world communicates, stores and disseminates knowledge. But, like everything else, there is much more behind that word than meets the eye. Let's find out!

What is printing?

Simply put, printing is the process of transferring text or images from a matrix to a surface (usually paper). Although it seems everyday today, this technology was a major watershed in history.

• In 1455, Johannes Gutenberg created the movable type printing press, allowing books to be mass-produced. His most famous work, the Gutenberg Bible, was the starting gun for a more connected and informed world

Since then, we have advanced from rudimentary movable type to digital technologies that can print on any material, from textiles to ceramics.

The most common types of printing

With the experience I have in this industry, I have worked with several printing methods. Here are the main ones:

1. Type Printing

This is the granddaddy of modern methods, based on metal blocks with raised lettering. Although no longer used as much, it is still popular for vintage designs and limited editions.

2. Offset Printing

Here the images are transferred first to a roller and then to paper. It is ideal for large, high-quality print runs, such as magazines and books.

3. Digital Printing

Perfect for personalized and quick jobs. From your digital file directly to the machine. No plates needed and allows you to print everything from flyers to photos.

4. Screen Printing

If you've ever seen a cool t-shirt design, chances are it was screen printed. It's versatile, and can be used on glass, wood or textiles.

5. Sublimation

This method converts solid dye into gas, making images blend into materials like mugs or clothing.The result? Vibrant colors that don't rub off.

6. Egravure printing

Specially for large volumes and fine details, such as packaging or luxury magazines. It's one of the most expensive methods, but it's worth every euro invested【9】.

The evolution of printing

I remember the first time I saw a offset machine in action: the smell of the ink, the noise of the paper moving at full speed.... A magical experience. But this breakthrough did not happen overnight:

• 1455: Gutenberg's printing press was born.
• 1800: The iron printing press was invented, increasing production speed.
• 1863: The web press arrives, capable of printing on both sides of the paper.
• 1971: Offset printing becomes standard.
• 2010: Digital printing revolutionizes the industry.

Today, technologies such as 3D printing allow us to create physical objects layer by layer, showing that the sector continues to reinvent itself.

Social and cultural impact of printing

Printing not only changed the way we produce texts; it revolutionized the entire world:

1. Democratization of knowledge: Before Gutenberg, books were luxury goods. Their invention allowed more people to access education.
3. Culture and art: From Renaissance prints to modern posters, printing has been an ally of art.
5. Marketing and advertising: There is no campaign that does not depend on a good flyer or a well-designed poster.

My personal experience

Here among us, the first time I printed something on an offset printer, I ended up with my hands full of ink and a stack of misaligned papers. But that experience taught me one thing: printing requires patience, precision and passion. Today, I know that every line and every color tells a story.

The Future of Printing

With advances like 3D printing, the industry never ceases to amaze. Can you imagine printing your own clothes or food? It may sound like science fiction, but it's a reality that is closer than you think.