The history of the printing press is very extensive. Pinpointing exactly when and where printing first began is almost impossible. The earliest known printing devices were created in China.

The Diamond Sutra is a Buddhist book that dates back to 868 AD. Created using the block printing technique, it is the oldest known printed book.

In 1086, scientist Shen Kuo first mentioned the moveable block printing method and its inventor Bi Sheng from Hubei, China.  Bi Sheng carved the letters out of clay and then arranged them on an iron frame, fixed onto an iron plate.

In 1297, Wang Chen brought back wood block printing. His method was famous and the most widely used, until Johannes Gutenberg invented the modern printing press, which was also called the wooden press.

Gutenberg replaced wood with lead and crafted his own ink to ensure better results. By using methods such as replica and sand casting, he further revolutionized the printing process. Gutenberg partnered with Johannes Fust in 1452, and together they started printing pamphlets, books, and calendars.

One of his most renowned printed pieces is the Gutenberg bible. He printed approximately 180 copies of the text. Around 25 copies of the bible still remain. Gutenberg used high-quality parchment, vellum and paper. Instead of the water-based inks, Gutenberg used a much more durable oil-based ink and also printed a few pages in color.

Metal presses appeared in the late 18th century. By the mid 19th century, a steam driven power cylinder was being used. Further modifications brought the rotary press, flat bed press, and offset printing.

The printing press, or machinery as we know it today, flows from the skeletal framework that was provided by Johannes Gutenberg. His invention’s ability to apply rapid steady downward pressure was his greatest achievement. You can find out more about the history and evolution of printing press here and here.

Author: Amita Vadlamudi