Introduction  

Have you ever wondered before paper was invented how did people write? Humans know how to write long before paper was invented. In this blog I will share with you how did humans write before the invention of paper and who invented paper? 

Background: The Egyptians

A common method used by the Egyptians was to draw pictures and make symbols into tree bark. They would also make symbols on the cave walls or write on an animal’s skin or bones as well as use papyrus or clay tablets. These methods were also used by others outside of Egypt. But the Egyptians would use Papyrus plant to make sails, clothes, mats and as well as paper.  Over the time Papyrus became their main writing material. This method was adopted by the Greeks and then introduced to and used by the Romans.

The Romans

The Romans used wax tablets which were portable and reusable. These tablets were made from the wood or metal frame. They would insert a layer of wax inside the frame and use stylus to etch into the wax. To reuse they would simply melt the wax to smooth it over. They also used parchments made from an animal's skin. 

China's Contribution To Modern Paper & Printing

The modern way of paper and printing is invented by China. Paper was initially used in court officials. Chinese used plant puree conglomerate which was produced by paper mills. They used paper mills for writing, drawing and money. During the 8th century paper mills spread to the Islamic world and replaced the papyrus. By the 11th century paper made its way to Europe and replaced skin based parchments. By the 13th century Spain built its first paper mill using waterwheels to produce paper and soon after paper mills were built all across Europe.