Printing

Printing is the reproduction of text and images in quantity on paper. Modern printing has become highly sophisticated and more digital in nature and has been transformed from art to science. New digital printing processes combine the use of advanced premedia systems (preparation of content for printing or publishing), lasers, plates, [Page 1311]presses, inks, papers, electronic controls, and digital imaging and printing systems. This entry examines printing’s origins and summarizes different types of printing, including lithography, digital imaging, and ink-based processes, including but not limited to offset lithography, letterpress, and screen printing.