So you’re ready to print your job, but you want white ink or metallic gold lettering, how do you print those specs? There’s so many different ways to print work, and each has it’s own benefits. This week we’ll talk about some of the printing methods available and why you might chose one over the other.
The Advantages of Offset Printing
Unlike digital printing, offset printing becomes much more cost-effective as quantity goes up.
Unlike digital printing, offset printing becomes much more cost-effective as quantity goes up, The production and shipping time will be longer for an offset print run than a digital one.
Digital Printing
Probably the most familiar method of printing, digital refers to methods of printing from a -based image directly to a variety of media. It usually refers to professional printing where small-run jobs from desktop publishing and other digital sources are printed using large-format and/or high-volume laser or inkjet printers. It allows for on-demand printing, short turnaround time, and even a modification of the image (variable data) used for each impression because a plate does not need to be made to create a print.
Screen Printing
Screen printing is a stencil method of print making in which a design is imposed on a screen of polyester or other fine mesh, with blank areas coated with an impermeable substance. Ink is forced into the mesh openings by a squeegee and onto the printing surface during the squeegee stroke. As the screen rebounds away from the substrate the ink remains on the substrate. One color is printed at a time, so several screens can be used to produce a multi-colored image or design.
Engraving
As a highly skilled craft dating back to the 16th century, engraving conveys an unspoken message of distinction and timelessness. Running your fingers over a piece of engraved stationery reveals the textures unique to engraving — finely detailed, raised letters with slight indentations on the reverse side of the paper. There is no substitute for true engraving. An image is etched into a copper plate and sent through a press, forcing part of the paper into the etched cavity of the die, creating inked, raised surfaces in the paper. You can tell if something is truly engraved by the bruising on the back of the paper.