From Papyrus to Graphite, papermaking and Ink have always been the staple of our modern society. Ink covers a surface by producing texts, designs or imagery whilst paper actually being that surface. In ancient times, it was common for people to use the products of their environment to create the Inks they used. Everything was made from natural materials. It all dates back to the Ink called Lampblack, which is from a product of fire.
The Ancient Egyptians drew on Papyrus paper (A thick paper) from the papyrus plant. You can find them even today on scrolls with hieroglyphics. Without Papyrus, we would have no access to modern word paper. The materials they used to make the ink were a mixture of burnt organic resources and water. The use of Plant gum was to keep the ink and the papyrus paper together. This gum still has its uses today in majority of Inks because it does not fade or deteriorate the paper we use.
Graphite played an important role in Chinese art. The Chinese used graphite and mixed it with water to create their Ink. The Ink they used was very much similar to watercolours but when used with a brush they would create delicate strokes as a part of their calligraphy and art. Many used this method to write ancient scriptures. The majority of the Ink was from animals! When dealing with Inksticks- the Chinese leaned more towards fish glue. It was more common in woodworking today, as it is extremely strong and takes 12 hours to dry. They’d commonly use this Ink on paper they would make using a mixture of mulberry bark, hemp and water rags. They are then pulverised and pressed then hung out in the sun to dry.
Without the help of paper, we would have no or limited literature or literacy skills and to spread those skills would have been even more difficult to do. I think it is important to understand that just like technology; paper also played an important role in us evolving. Without paper, we would not have money, toilet tissue or even books. Things like taking care of our hygiene have been much simpler and easier for us now thanks to these discoveries. We don’t have to source many materials to make so that we can study and learn. However, everything made quick and easy for us always comes with disadvantages. Unfortunately, littering is a common issue with today’s society and our planet is suffering from the affects from this. It is important that we’re mindful and always do our best to recycle paper.
