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Printing Techniques

Printing Techniques

When it comes to printing there is a such a huge variety of options available to choose from. Depending on the type and volume of garments we can offer a print solution for pretty much any design.

Learn more about each print method below:

Screen Print
Digital Print
Pad Print
Sublimation
Bespoke Print

Digital Transfer
Digital Label
Embroidery
Engraving

Emboss/De-boss
Doming
S
creen Transfer
Screen Print
screen print example
Screen printing is a print method where the image is imposed on a mesh screen and the inks are then press through to produce a clear, sharp image.


Screen round is based on the same method as screen print except the product is turned during the printing process, making this method suitable for curved surfaces.

This is a perfect technique to be used on large round areas like sports bottles and pens resulting in some brilliant merchandise! Screen print is great to create amazing textile garments like clothing, bags and umbrellas but it is also applicable to paper, metal and plastic.

  • Great for textiles
  • Suitable for flat or round surfaces
  • Pantone matching available

 

Digital Printdigital print example

Digital printing is very similar to inkjet printing. Micro droplets of ink are squirted onto a product to create an image. The ink is instantly cured by exposing it to UV light.

Digital printing is an ideal process for your standout multi coloured logos or designs. It is a highly durable process and has a strong resistance to fading and damage, also it looks great!

It is mainly suitable for flat surfaces but can sometimes be applied to slightly curved surfaces. A great method to use if you have loud and colourful logo that will make sure your product gets noticed.

  • Multi coloured logos
  • Highly durable
  • Ideal for small quantities

 

Pad Print
pad print example on a pen

Pad printing is an indirect printing process that involves ink being transferred from an engraved metal plate via a silicone pad onto the product.

Pad printing is a great all-round cost-effective solution as it is fast and economical. It can be applied on virtually any shaped product and is suitable for any surface texture.

It is a perfect method for multi coloured logos up to 4 colours. Pantone (PMS) colours only.

  • Fast & economical
  • Suitable for most shapes
  • Suitable for most surfaces
Sublimation
sublimation example on a sports t-shirt

Sublimation represents a digital printing method that enables the application of full-color images onto white, rigid surfaces or items coated with polyester. Initially, an image or logo undergoes printing on sublimation paper using full-color (CMYK) printing.

Following printing, the sheets of paper undergo an automatic cutting process. These printed sheets are subsequently affixed to a product utilizing a combination of pressure, time, and heat. Throughout this procedure, the ink undergoes a transition from a solid to gaseous state, permeating the surface of the item. Once the item cools down, the ink becomes permanently fixed within the surface or coating of the item.

Bespoke Print
example of a bespoke printed cap

If your looking for something that is totally unique to your brand, then why not work with us to create a completely customised product that can be designed according to your specification.

With a combination of our industry knowledge and our manufacturing partners wealth of experience, we’ll be able to create a unique, innovative product that will really wow your customers.

We want to partner with you and guide you through every step of the process, helping bring your ideas to life.

  • Innovative products
  • Product design
  • Unique to your brand
Digital Transfer
digital transfer example

Digital Transfer stands out as a highly favoured technique for vibrant logos and designs, yielding results with photographic quality. The process begins with the digital printing of colours (CMYK) onto a sizeable paper roll. Following this, a white layer is printed onto the regions covered by the colours. Subsequently, adhesive is applied to facilitate adhesion onto the intended item. The final step involves affixing the transfer image or logo onto the item through a combination of pressure, time, and heat.

Digital Label
digital label example

Digital Labeling involves the digital printing of a sticker that is affixed to a product. This method is commonly employed for items where alternative printing techniques are impractical. A full-colour sticker is printed and subsequently precision-cut using a plotter. The Digital Label is then peeled off and carefully applied to the items.

 Embroidery
embroidery example on a sweatshirt

Embroidery for promotional merchandise is a decorative technique that involves stitching a design or logo onto various items, such as clothing, bags, hats, or other accessories, to enhance their visual appeal and brand visibility. In this process, a digital image or logo is converted into a format that embroidery machines can interpret. The design is then stitched onto the merchandise using specialised computerised embroidery machines.

The embroidery process typically uses threads of various colours to create intricate and durable designs. It provides a professional and high-quality appearance, adding a tactile and three-dimensional texture to the promotional items. Embroidery is especially popular for corporate branding and promotional merchandise as it conveys a sense of sophistication and longevity.

Promotional products like embroidered apparel often serve as effective marketing tools, offering a tangible way for businesses to showcase their logos, slogans, or brand messages. The durability of embroidery ensures that the branding remains visible and intact over time, making it a reliable choice for creating lasting impressions and fostering brand recognition.

Engraving
example of engraving on an insulated bottle

Laser engraving for promotional merchandise is a precise and sophisticated technique that involves using a laser to etch or mark designs, logos, or text onto various items, enhancing their aesthetic appeal and brand representation. This process is commonly employed on materials like metal, wood, glass, acrylic, leather, and some plastics.

In laser engraving, a focused laser beam removes or alters the surface material of the merchandise, creating a permanent and highly detailed design. The process is guided by computer software, allowing for intricate and customisable patterns with a high level of precision. This method is particularly suitable for creating fine details, intricate graphics, and even small text on promotional items.

Promotional merchandise featuring laser engraving often conveys a premium and upscale feel, making it an attractive choice for businesses aiming to create a lasting impression. The resulting designs are durable and resistant to fading, ensuring the longevity of the branded items. Laser engraving is commonly used for products such as pens, keychains, metal awards, and promotional gifts, providing a sophisticated and personalised touch to enhance brand visibility and recognition.

Embossing/De-bossing
example of embossing on a book

Embossing and de-bossing are techniques commonly used in the production of promotional merchandise to add a three-dimensional texture to surfaces.

  1. Embossing:

    • Process: Embossing involves raising a design or logo above the surface of the material. This is achieved by applying pressure to the back of the material, typically using a metal die.
    • Effect: The raised design creates a visually striking and tactile element, enhancing the overall appearance of the promotional item. Embossing is often used to add a touch of elegance and professionalism to products like business cards, paper folders, or promotional packaging.
    • Materials: Common materials for embossing include paper, cardboard, leather, and certain plastics.
  2. De-bossing:

    • Process: De-bossing, on the other hand, involves pressing a design or logo into the surface of the material, creating a depressed or indented effect. This is also achieved using a metal die and pressure.
    • Effect: The de-bossed design provides a subtle and sophisticated appearance, giving a tactile feel to the merchandise. De-bossing is often chosen for its understated elegance and is suitable for products like notebooks, leather goods, or promotional apparel.
    • Materials: Similar to embossing, de-bossing is commonly applied to materials like paper, cardboard, leather, and specific plastics.

Both embossing and de-bossing techniques add a premium and customised touch to promotional merchandise, making them stand out and leaving a lasting impression on recipients. These methods not only contribute to the visual appeal but also offer a tactile experience that elevates the perceived value of the branded items.

Doming
example of doming onto a product

Promotional merchandise doming is a process that involves applying a clear, liquid polyurethane resin to a printed or engraved surface. This resin forms a dome-shaped, transparent, and protective layer over the design or logo. The result is a three-dimensional, glossy finish that enhances the visual appeal of the promotional item.

Here's a breakdown of the doming process for promotional merchandise:

  1. Printing or Engraving: Before the doming process begins, the desired design, logo, or graphic is typically printed or engraved onto the surface of the promotional item.

  2. Application of Polyurethane Resin: A clear liquid polyurethane resin is then carefully applied over the printed or engraved surface. This resin is self-leveling, allowing it to naturally form a smooth and rounded dome shape as it cures.

  3. Curing and Drying: The promotional item with the applied resin is allowed to cure and dry. During this process, the resin hardens and solidifies, creating a durable and transparent protective layer.

  4. Enhanced Appearance: The cured resin creates a distinctive domed effect, adding a glossy and three-dimensional look to the promotional merchandise. This not only enhances the visual appeal of the design but also provides protection against scratches, UV radiation, and other environmental factors.

Doming is commonly used on a variety of promotional products, including keychains, badges, stickers, and emblems. It not only serves as a protective layer but also contributes to a premium and polished appearance, making the branded merchandise more eye-catching and memorable. The durability of the domed finish ensures that the promotional items maintain their aesthetic appeal over an extended period, making them effective and long-lasting marketing tools.

Screen Transferscreen transfer example

Screen transfer involves the initial printing of the logo on specialised silicon-based paper instead of directly on the item. The colours are systematically printed onto a white base, with each colour undergoing a drying process in a tunnel after printing. Once all colours are applied, a layer of adhesive is added in the shape of the logo, followed by the application of adhesive powder.

Using a heat press, the transfer is then affixed to the item. The heat causes the adhesive to liquefy, and the applied pressure ensures a secure adhesion to the item. Subsequently, the paper is removed, leaving the logo permanently on the item.

 


For more information on which method you should use for different products, get in touch to discuss your options and preferences. Our team are friendly and experienced in making sure you get the best results and value for money.

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