Printing is a process of mass reproduction of images, texts, or even whole pages. It involves the use of a template or master form. It can be a large-scale industrial process or a small, individual operation.
It may also be the application of ink to paper. The ink is applied to the surface of a printing plate and is then pressed into the paper. It is important to note that printing has not always been as simple as this. Various techniques have been developed, such as intaglio (relief), planographic, and offset.
Intaglio printing is one of the oldest and most complex forms of printmaking. It is a method of making fine, highly detailed reproductions of artwork. It combines photographic methods with a copper printing plate.
It is an essential element of paper-based publishing. It can be found on posters, banners, wallpaper, T-shirts, and even on your computer.
The process of printing was first developed in the 15th century by Johannes Gutenberg. His printing press helped make it possible to produce books in dozens of copies, instead of the few hundred that were the norm.
It also helped spur the development of radio and television. It is still important, particularly in the West. It has contributed to the spread of ideas and social changes resulting from industrialization. It has also spawned rival processes.
Although printing has been the primary means of reproducing text and imagery for centuries, it has changed considerably since its invention. For instance, the invention of movable type has helped spur more creative forms of printing.