Ink has been an essential medium for recording human history, evolving from ancient natural dyes to modern synthetic formulations. The need to document life and tell stories has driven this evolution. Early civilizations used ink to etch their stories onto parchment, and today ink continues to play a crucial role in capturing the narratives of our time. The journey of ink in the printing world is a fascinating tale of innovation and adaptation, reflecting the changing needs and technologies of society.
The earliest inks were developed by ancient civilizations such as the Egyptians and Chinese. These inks were typically made from natural sources like soot, animal glue, and plant dyes. The Chinese developed ink sticks using soot and glue which were ground with water to produce a useable ink. These early inks were crucial for documenting everything from religious texts to administrative records, laying the foundation for written communication.
Le invention of the printing press by Johannes Gutenberg in the mid-15th century revolutionized the use of ink. His press required a new type of ink that was thicker and more viscous than traditional writing inks. This particular ink was made from a mixture of soot, turpentine, and walnut oil, which adhered well to the metal type and paper, producing clear and durable prints. This ink (and press) innovation not only made books more accessible but also paved the way for the mass production of printed materials, significantly impacting literacy and education.
The Industrial Revolution brought significant advancements in ink production. Until then traditional inks, such as iron gall ink were made from a combination of metal salts, tannates derived from plants, and a binder like gum arabic. The development of synthetic dyes and pigments allowed for a wider range of colours and more consistent quality. In the 19th century, the introduction of petroleum-based inks further improved the printing process, making it faster and more efficient. These advancements enabled the production of high-quality prints at a lower cost, supporting the growth of newspapers, magazines, and other printed media.
In the early 20th century, ink formulations began to incorporate more advanced chemical processes and materials. Inks during this period often included synthetic dyes and pigments, petroleum-based solvents, resins, and a pigment called “Carbon Black”, made from the incomplete combustion of heavy petroleum products. These compositions were crucial for the growing demands of the printing industry.
Today, the printing industry uses a variety of inks tailored to different printing methods and materials. Offset and digital printing each require specific types of ink to produce the best results. Modern inks are designed to be environmentally friendly with many manufacturers focusing on reducing volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and using renewable resources. At Friesens, we use vegetable-based inks, which ensures that we can continue to thrive without compromising the planet.
From the soot and plant dyes of ancient times to the sophisticated formulations of today, ink has played an essential role in preserving and sharing our stories. As technology continues to evolve, so too will the inks that help us share your best story with the world.
