Hectografi

Hectografi refers to a printing technique that utilizes a gelatinous pad to duplicate documents. Invented by Karl Klädt in Germany in the late 19th century, it was a popular method for producing multiple copies of handwritten or typed material before the advent of photocopiers. The process involves writing or typing on special paper with aniline ink. This inked image is then transferred to the gelatinous hectograph pad. Subsequent sheets of paper are pressed onto the pad, picking up a portion of the ink and creating a duplicate. The quality and number of copies that could be produced varied, but typically ranged from a few dozen to around fifty, with each copy being progressively lighter. Hectography was relatively simple and inexpensive, making it accessible for schools, small businesses, and organizations. The term "hectograph" itself comes from the Greek word "hekaton," meaning one hundred, referring to the potential number of copies. While largely replaced by modern copying technologies, hectography remains a notable example of early duplication methods.