The ultimate guide to printing inks and processes, from the pigment to the printmaker.

Since printing's invention in the sixth century, inks have remained a fundamental aspect of the printing process. In this comprehensive and accessible guide, Stephen Hoskins and Michael Craine trace the development of ink from ancient China through the Middle Ages and from the industrial revolution to the digital age. As well as its history, they explore inks for different forms of printmaking, specialist inks, environmental issues and recent developments in health and safety for the printmaker.

Offering detailed guidance to the inks used for processes from etching and relief printing to lithography and screen printing, as well as how to make your own from dry pigment, the book is beautifully illustrated with examples and offers practical information for all levels of printmakers, from the specialist to the amateur.

Stephen Hoskins is Professor of Fine Print and Founder of the Centre for Fine Print Research. He has over 40 peer-reviewed papers and articles, 3 patents, and led a team of internationally recognised researchers for 25 years.

Michael Craine is an experienced maker of artists paints and printmaking inks. After studying ink and paint chemistry, Michael joined Cranfield Colours in 1989. He is a member of the European Artists' Colour Makers Association (EuACA).