Printing has shaped the way we share information, tell stories and promote businesses. From early presses in Europe to today’s digital machines, the history of print is full of surprising milestones and fascinating trivia. Here at SwiftPrint in Huddersfield, we love the craft and tradition of printing, and we know our customers enjoy learning the quirky facts behind it too.
In this article, we take a closer look at seven fascinating facts about printing – some from the past, some from the present – that show just how incredible this industry really is.
The history of printing
Printing may feel like a modern convenience, but its roots stretch back hundreds of years.
Gutenberg’s press revolutionised the world
In the mid-1400s Johannes Gutenberg unveiled the first mechanical printing press. Until then, books were copied by hand, making them rare and expensive. Gutenberg’s movable type press meant knowledge could be spread to a much wider audience. This one invention is often credited with sparking the Renaissance and accelerating learning across Europe.
The first printed newspaper
By 1605, printing technology had advanced enough to produce the world’s first printed newspaper in Strasbourg, Germany. For the first time, information could be shared quickly with large groups of people. Newspapers would go on to become a cornerstone of daily life, paving the way for mass communication that continues today.
Printing and memory
It might surprise you to learn that our brains respond differently to print compared to screens. Numerous studies show people retain information more effectively when reading from printed material. This is one reason why leaflets, brochures and business cards still have such a powerful impact – especially for local businesses in Huddersfield who rely on strong first impressions.
Modern printing and surprising facts
Fast forward to today, and printing is still full of interesting developments and lesser-known stories.
Printer ink costs more than gold
One of the most surprising statistics in the print world is the cost of ink. Ounce for ounce, printer ink can be more expensive than gold. That might sound like an exaggeration, but it reflects the high level of technology involved in producing ink that is precise, durable and capable of creating thousands of vibrant colours.
At SwiftPrint, we balance the need for top-quality inks with competitive pricing so our customers get outstanding results without breaking the bank.
The largest printed book in the world
Imagine a book too heavy to lift. That is the case with Bhutan: A Visual Odyssey Across the Last Himalayan Kingdom, a photographic atlas that weighs more than 1,500 pounds and measures over five feet wide when opened. It shows the extremes of what print can achieve, far beyond the everyday leaflets and posters we are used to seeing.
Printing and sustainability
Modern printing is far greener than many people think. FSC-certified paper ensures materials come from responsibly managed forests. Advances in ink technology mean fewer harmful chemicals are used, and recyclable materials help reduce waste. At SwiftPrint we are committed to sustainable printing, giving our Huddersfield customers peace of mind that their projects are produced responsibly.
3D printing is part of the print family
When most people hear “printing”, they think of paper and ink. But 3D printing has expanded the definition of the industry. Using digital designs, 3D printers build objects layer by layer, creating everything from medical implants to car components. It is a reminder that printing is constantly evolving and still plays a vital role in shaping the future.
