There are multiple elements that combine to make a label that is perfect for your product. To begin with, design, label material, chosen colours, suitable adhesives, ornamentation etc., play a crucial role in creating the perfect label. However, another vital element, called the label printing technique, plays a pivotal role in determining the quality of the label.
You will get the best results when you use the correct printing technique for an easy peel removable label or a permanent one. The type of technique will depend mainly on the kind of label and the available budget.
In this article, we will equip you with 6 different types of label printing techniques and their uses-
Digital Label Printing
Digital printing is one of the most popular methods for printing labels. It is a very versatile method used for a variety of different applications. One of the biggest benefits of digital printing is that it does not require a plate, so set-up time is significantly lesser. In addition, one can also use this method for short-run projects, which makes it perfect for companies that do not need large quantities of labels. However, one downside to digital printing is that it generally has a lower print quality than some of the other methods.
Offset Label Printing
Offset printing is a popular choice for those who need high-quality labels. It is because offset printing produces labels with a very sharp and clean look. In addition, offset printing plates can last for years, so you will not have to reinvest in new plates every time you need more labels. However, one downside to offset printing is that it requires longer set-up times than some of the other methods. In addition, this method generally requires larger print runs to be cost-effective.
Flexographic Label Printing
Flexographic printing is another popular choice for those who need high-quality labels. This method produces labels that have a very sharp and clean look. In addition, flexographic printing plates can last for years, so you will not have to reinvest in new plates whenever you need more labels. However, one downside to flexographic printing is that it requires longer set-up times than some of the other methods. In addition, this method generally requires larger print runs to be cost-effective.
Gravure Label Printing
Like flexographic printing, gravure printing uses a rotary printing process. Large copper-plated metal cylinders are custom-made for each order. The print cylinder draws ink from its reservoir as the media passes through the press and then between impression cylinders leaving the media engraved with ink. Metal cylinders have a long lifespan, making gravure printing ideal for high-volume, long-term printing. The image quality produced is very consistent with minor impurities. Rotogravure has a lower unit price but requires long-run runs to achieve that margin. Like flexography, gravure requires significant start-up time to get the press ready to run. It takes hundreds of thousands of copies for print to be profitable.
Screen Label Printing
Screen printing is unique since each piece is handmade. Screen printing uses ink and a squeegee to transfer a design created on a stencil. It found its niche in the apparel industry and quickly became the go-to choice for textile brands. Like the techniques mentioned above, screen printing also takes a long time to set up. Setting up the stencil takes time, and the printer individually maps each colour onto the medium. The more colours you implement in your design, the longer it takes to set up and create. Each screen is unique because a certain amount of ink can pass through it. So a 4-colour design requires 4 screens for the application, each specific to the colour.
Screen printing is great if you only need one or two colours, but the cost and effort increase as more colours and layers add to the design. With screen printing, you benefit from a higher number of copies.
3D Label Printing
Transform your digital model into a physical three-dimensional object by adding materials layer by layer. Parts are built layer-by-layer directly on their platform, so no special tools are required. Processes always require a 3D digital model, as they are blueprints for physical objects. The model is sliced into thin 2D slices by the printer software. It is then translated into a series of machine language (G-code) instructions to run the printer.
Concluding Words
As you can see, there are a few different options for label printing techniques. The type of technique that you use will ultimately depend on your specific needs and goals. Ultimately, the best way to determine which technique is right for you is to consult a professional printer who can assess your specific needs and recommend the best solution.
Find the Perfect Match for Your Product at DAL
DAL, Dial A Label Pty Ltd. owns more than three decades of experience in the field of label printing. We have continuously been evolving with experience, expertise and technology. We are among Australia’s top companies providing labels suitable for thermal and laser printing. We also have a vast collection of printers ideal for every industry, such as food label printers, digital label printers, gold foil label printers etc.
Salient features of DAL-
- ISO9001 Accreditation
- Extensive Industry Knowledge
- 100% Product Quality Guarantee
- Affordable Price Match Guarantee
- 100% Customer Satisfaction
To learn more about DAL and our products, visit https://www.dal.com.au/. Alternatively, call us at 03 9764 2882, 03 9764 2215 or email at sales@dal.com.au.