What are digital printers in packaging?
Digital printing packaging involves directly printing designs from a digital computer file, allowing for quick setup and easy changes. Digital printers work similarly to your printer at home and omit the need for expensive production set-up used in traditional printing methods.
To learn more about other types of printing for packaging, check out offset printing or flexographic printing.
Digital Printing Process
1. Design preparation: Designs are prepared on a digital file which is converted to a compatible digital format; the file is then reviewed to ensure it is ready for print. At this stage, designs may be checked for typos, bleeds, crop marks and any other details that would lead to a misprint.
2. Printer Setup: The file is uploaded to the digital printer and the printer settings are configured on several factors such as the substrate material.
3. Printing: The digital printer begins printing by applying layers of ink (CMYK) on top of each other.
4. Finishes: Finally, once the designs have been printed on the substrate, the packaging may undergo different finishing processes such as cutting, folding, laminating and coatings.
Why choose digital printing?
- Customization: Digital printing allows for a lot of flexibility therefore making it easy to personalize and modify designs. As such, it is ideal for small runs and bespoke packaging.
- Efficiency: As the process requires minimal setup and preparation, it allows for faster turnaround times
- Cost-effectiveness: For smaller runs, digital printing can be more economical since it eliminates the need for extensive setup costs associated with flexographic printing or offset printing