Tipos de impresión y acabados

What are the main printing techniques?

Printing techniques are fundamental to the final presentation of a product. Each technique has its specific characteristics, suitable for different materials and product quantities. Knowing these options allows you to optimize your budget and obtain the expected result. Below, we will explore the main printing techniques used in the market and their applications.

What is rotogravure printing?

Rotogravure printing is a high quality technique commonly used for short shelf life packaging, such as food packaging. This technique uses a metal cylinder to print quickly at high speed, reaching print runs of more than 5,000 to 6,000 continuous impressions. It is ideal for large companies that need to produce large volumes of products in a short time. Although expensive for small print runs, it is highly efficient for full-color printing with high fidelity.

What is flexo and when is it recommended?

Flexography is suitable for moldable surfaces such as plastic bags and certain types of corrugated cardboard. This technique is most economical when run lengths over 1,000 units are used, as printing fewer units could significantly increase costs. Flexography is known for its high print fidelity, ideal for plastic packaging, cardboard, and other similar materials.

How does dry offset work and in which cases is it used?

Although less common in the market, dry offset is perfect for printing spot colors with high fidelity, being ideal for certain metals and plastics. Often used on butter packaging, this technique is more economical and provides an acceptable presentation without the need for high definition.

On the other hand, traditional offset lithography is widely used in the publishing industry for its ability to produce high quality prints. This technique uses several color plates, allowing printing in polychrome and adding special colors, metallics and finishes that raise the visual and tactile level of the packaging.

When to use screen printing and what is its advantage?

Screen printing is an artisanal technique, ideal for small print runs, starting with a minimum of fifty units. It is characterized by its method of printing color by color through a specialized mesh. It is an economical option for products that do not require full color printing, being recommended for prints with only two or three colors.

Why choose digital printing?

Digital printing stands out for its flexibility, allowing printing from a single unit to moderate quantities without requiring pre-burning of plates. This technique is ideal for scale models and scale models due to its printing quality and speed. However, for large print runs, it can be more expensive compared to other techniques such as offset.

What is handmade printing and when is it useful?

Handmade printing is ideal for small production runs, offering a personalized and unique finish that can add value to the final product. Methods such as personalized stamps are adaptable but demanding, being recommended for productions of no more than thirty to fifty units.

How to choose printing finishes?

Printing finishes add distinctive and sophisticated details. Among them, die-cuts allow the creation of windows or customized shapes, and tactile finishes elevate specific areas of the design to offer an attractive physical experience. The use of metallic and specialty inks can add a premium level, making the product more eye-catching and luxurious.

Key factors when selecting a printing technique.

• Number of units: The printing technique should be matched to the quantity needed. Larger productions tend to be more economical.
• Suitable substrate: Choose techniques specific to the product material, whether plastic, metal or cardboard.
• Content to be printed: Text, illustrations or photographs require different techniques to ensure adequate quality.

Your choice of techniques and finishes will have a profound impact on the perception of the product in the market. Try it out and discover which one aligns best with your project and envision how to stand out in a visually competitive world - it's your time to impress!