The Printing Press

In the 15th century the movable-type printing press was invented. This was not only an important engineering invention; it made knowledge, including scientific knowledge, accessible for the masses. It also increased literacy substantially.

A single printing press of this type could print up to 3,600 pages per day. If you had to do hand-copying, you could make 40 pages a day. This was a 90-fold increase!

That is why I chose the Printing Press as my project for this challenge. I have made a printing press with all the moveable parts of the original. The set also comes with a type case.

The steps of the printing process, are shown on the second picture: First apply the ink on the type-block. Then fold down the white screen and put the paper on top. This part of the machine then slides under the press. The handle of the press is moved to the side so that pressure is applied to the paper and type-block. Move the handle back and then move the type-block-slide back. The print is ready!