When most people hear the term screen printing, they think about a common process used for printing on fabric and clothing. Most custom-printed tee shirts, especially low volume quantities, are printed using this simple, compact, relatively inexpensive print process. Screen printing also works well on plastics and is often used to custom print plastic water bottles and other inexpensive items. Usually in lieu of a label that may peel off and not last.
You may not realize that screen printing can also be used for printing on corrugated board, to work in conjunction with and not in place of flexographic print plates.
The Screen “Stencil” is the Key.
All screen printing requires a stencil that allows ink to pass though it so that color can be applied to the substrate being printed whether it is metal, cloth, plastic, or corrugated board. If the stencil allows 100% ink penetration, you end up printing a solid version of the ink color being used. If the stencil is blocked, for example, allowing 25% or 50% ink passing through, you achieve a lighter density of the same color, creating a lighter version of the same ink color. The photos included in this post show the effect and end result.
When is That Advantageous?
Depending on several factors, flexographic plates can cost upwards of $500 per color so if you can print (for example) black and multiple shades of gray shown in the Bobble Head Tote photo, using only one plate, your prepress costs are reduced substantially. Set up time, run time and clean up time are also reduced, lowering your labor cost per unit. In other words, utilizing screens can help you achieve the look you want at minimal overall costs.
Unleash Your Creative Side, Optimize your Unboxing Experience.
Your graphics team is no longer limited to a simple one- or two-color design. Shadows and outlines can be accentuated, and multiple shades and color variations can be created inexpensively. We can print virtually ANYTHING you can imagine and always welcome a challenge.
Keep in mind that screen printing is just one variation of one of our three available printing processes. Digital printing opens up a whole other world of colors and printing capabilities. Third is litho label printing where truly, the sky is the limit. See the related posts below for more details on each of these branding options.
Let us help you determine which option is best for you and how we can help you achieve it at the lowest possible cost. Call us at 630-551-1700 or contact us via this link. Our experienced, non-commission, branded packaging advisors are ready to assist you.
Related posts:
https://www.salazarpackaging.com/which-print-process-is-best-for-you/
https://www.salazarpackaging.com/short-or-single-run-packaging-solution-think-digital-printing/
https://www.salazarpackaging.com/buyers-guide-to-digitally-printed-corrugated-e-commerce-boxes-2/
https://www.salazarpackaging.com/litho-label-is-a-unique-inside-graphics-option/