The Historical Manufacture of Blue-Coloured Paper

Summary This review article presents historical and technical information concerning European blue paper manufacture until the introduction of aniline dyes in the late 19th century. It summarizes important aspects of three major colouring methods, namely the use of blue coloured rags, the dyeing of paper pulp and the addition of pigments to the pulp. Each of these colouring methods is presented in a separate section. Less important, but no less interesting methods such as the tinting of papers after their manufacture are also given attention. Since the production of purple paper is closely associated with blue paper manufacture, it is included in the review. For the same reason, the ‘blueing’ of white paper is also given consideration. In order to provide the appropriate historical context, the text is prefaced by an introduction to the traditional uses of blue paper and its precursors.