Printing on paper is a fundamental part of our communication and information transfer, despite the significant development of digital solutions. This art and the science of transferring thoughts to a piece of paper has an impact on ourselves and many aspects of our lives. This article describes how printing works, its development, technology and importance in today’s world.
History of Printing on Paper
The history of printing has had a huge impact on the development of culture and communication for over 500 years. Before this period, books were only available to a few, and the time and cost of creating them was huge. Here are some key moments in the history of printing:
- The invention of typographic printing: In the 15th century, German inventor Johannes Gutenberg created typographic printing, which was a breakthrough in the history of printing. This event began the mass production of books and stationery. The so-called became famous. Gutenberg’s Bible.
- The first printing machine: In the 18th century, the English printer William Caxton created the first printing machine, which made it possible to significantly speed up printing and further spread the writings and books.
- Commercial printing: In the 19th century, printing became more accessible to contracting authorities, and commercial printing made it possible to publish newspapers, brochures, and books in bulk.
- The digital age: In the 20th and 21st centuries, the introduction of digital technology made printing much simpler. Now we are able to print on paper from computer files, and laser and inkjet printers are permanently and widely used in our homes and offices.
Printing Techniques
There are many different printing techniques that allow you to transfer images and texts to paper. Here are some of the most popular:
- Offset printing: This is the most commercially used printing method. It is based on the principle that the ink is transferred from the matrix to the rubber roller and then to the paper. It is most often used where there is a need to print large volumes.
- Digital printing: This technique uses digital data transmitted to the printing electronic device. It is a popular method in home and office devices, where mainly inkjet, laser, thermal, and formerly also needle printers are distinguished.
- Flexographic printing: This is a printing technique in which paint from polymer patterns applied to a roller is transferred to paper. Kiel-Pak is based on this technology for printing on block bags, flat and folded bags, sheets and paper rolls.
- Screen printing: This technique is often used to print on materials such as T-shirts, posters and mugs. It uses sieves to transfer ink to the material.
- 3D printing: This is a new technique that allows you to create three-dimensional “prints” by applying layers of material on top of each other, layer by layer. Although it is not printing on paper, it has revolutionized the way some products are produced.
Applications of Printing on Paper
Printing has many uses in our private and business lives. Here are some of them:
- Books and Magazines: Printing on paper is used in the production of books, newspapers and magazines and gives people around the world wide access to knowledge and culture.
- Advertising and marketing: Printing advertising materials such as flyers, posters and brochures is still popular in marketing ways to advertise a product, brand or company.
- Business correspondence: many companies communicate electronically, but in addition, there is still a need to send letters and other business documents in paper form.
- Art and decoration: Printing on paper is a popular form of creating works of art and ornaments that can be used in interior decoration and other artistic projects.
- Education: Educational materials, such as textbooks and notebooks, are usually printed on paper. Despite the competition, digital technology is still the basic information base in teaching.
Sustainable Printing
At a time when we are paying more and more attention to the impact of our activities on the environment, we also need to determine the impact that printing has on them. Printing does not remain without influence on nature and therefore many companies pay attention to the use of appropriate materials and technologies. Eco-friendly inks, recycled paper are used and waste is minimized. Companies and consumers are increasingly considering their choices in relation to printing in the context of environmental protection. Kiel-Pak also focuses on ecology. We only use FSC® certified paper. This means that a new one is planted in place of each tree cut down for paper production. Thanks to this, the planet is not deforested. We also use flexographic printing with the use of safe water-based paints, environmentally friendly, biodegradable and approved for contact with food. We also have our own waste water treatment plant for the production of our products. It is also not surprising that we specialize in paper packaging for gastronomy, which requires the highest quality standards!
Résumé
Printing on paper is an essential part of our lives. It has a long history and many applications in various fields. From Gutenberg’s inventor to digital technologies, printing on paper has evolved and continues to play a key role in communication and information transfer. It is equally important that we use this art consciously and sustainably, taking care of its impact on the natural environment. Print together with Kiel-Pak, where we combine quality with ecology!
