Inkcarrying

Inkcarrying refers to the practice of storing and transporting ink, typically for writing or printing. Historically, this involved various methods and materials adapted to the available technology and intended use. For manual writing, ink was often carried in small containers, such as inkwells or vials, made of materials like glass, pottery, or metal. These were designed to be portable, sometimes with stoppers to prevent spillage. Scribes and scholars would often carry these with them to facilitate writing on the go.

In the context of printing, inkcarrying evolved with the development of printing presses. Early presses relied on manually applying ink to the printing plates, often using ink balls or rollers. The ink itself would be stored in larger containers, known as ink fountains or reservoirs, from which it could be dispensed. Over time, as printing technology advanced, so did the methods of ink delivery. The introduction of continuous printing processes led to more sophisticated ink systems, including pumps and tubes, to ensure a consistent flow of ink to the printing cylinders. Modern printing presses utilize complex, often automated, ink delivery systems that precisely control the amount and distribution of ink. The term can also broadly encompass the design and function of the internal mechanisms within pens and printers that manage ink flow from the reservoir to the writing or printing point.