Printing

Printing Techniques

Digital Printing

  • Digital Printing is a method that directly prints the digital-based images onto a variety of media.
  • It doesn’t require a printing plate, unlike more traditional methods such as lithography, flexography, or letterpress.
  • Attributes, such as low cost and instant turnaround times, make it a popular choice for rapid prototyping or personalised prints.
  • High quality, variable data capability (for personalised prints) and easy modification of images are the key advantages of digital printing.

Screen Printing

  • Screen Printing, or silk screening, is a method involving transferring a stencilled design onto a flat surface with a mesh screen, ink and a squeegee.
  • The areas that aren’t being printed are blocked on the screen.
  • This printing technique is appreciated for its capability to produce vibrant colours, even on darker fabrics or surfaces.
  • It’s popular for mass-producing t-shirts, posters, and other printed textiles.

Flexography

  • Flexography is commonly used for packaging and labels, it uses a flexible plate which is attached to a drum to print on to substrate materials.
  • Types of ink used in Flexography are usually low-viscosity so as to enable faster drying and enhanced production.
  • Flexography can deal with many types of substrate including paper, plastic, cellophane, and metal.

3D Printing

  • 3D Printing, or additive manufacturing, is a method where an object is created by adding material layer by layer.
  • This technique allows for the creation of complex geometric shapes and forms, which are often not possible using traditional manufacturing methods.
  • 3D printing has applications in a wide variety of fields including manufacturing, medicinal, architectural, and the food industry.

Considerations for selecting Printing Techniques

  • The material and surface of the final product is a key determinant in selecting the appropriate printing technique.
  • The quantity produced is also an important factor. For small-scale, personalised works - digital printing might be best whereas for large quantities, offset or flexography could be more suitable.
  • The budget of the project should also be considered as different technique vary greatly in cost.
  • The level of detail, colour precision, and desired texture will also dictate the most appropriate printing technique.