One-stop-shop printing has the ability to not just meet but exceed the needs of their client’s luxury packaging. Different techniques can be combined to achieve unique, high-end results. For example, treating a job with both offset printing and screen printing can leverage the unique strengths of each process. The crisp text, vibrant images, and precise details achieved through offset printing complement the luxury of tactile finishes, metallic accents, and dimensional effects created by screen printing. Let’s explore some of the ways these two printing techniques differ and can be used together.
Screen Printing
Texture: Screen printing often results in a slightly raised texture on the printed surface. This is because the ink is pushed through a mesh screen onto the substrate, creating a layer of ink that sits on top of the material. The texture can vary depending on factors such as the type of ink, substrate, and mesh count of the screen.
Finish: Screen printing can achieve a variety of finishes, from smooth and glossy to textured and matte. Specialized inks, such as metallic or fluorescent inks, can add unique finishes to the print job. Additionally, screen printing allows for thicker layers of ink to be applied, resulting in a more pronounced and tactile finish. Screen printing offers versatility in terms of materials and special effects, such as metallic inks or embossing. Adding a luxurious touch to upscale print products. Screen printing tends to produce prints with a more textured and tactile feel.
Offset Printing
Texture: Offset printing typically produces a smoother texture compared to screen printing. This is because the ink is transferred from a plate onto a rubber blanket before being applied to the substrate. The process creates a thin layer of ink that is evenly distributed across the surface, resulting in a smoother finish.
Finish: Offset printing offers precise color reproduction and a consistent finish. The final print usually has a clean, crisp appearance with sharp details and vibrant colors. While offset printing can achieve glossy finishes with the use of special coatings or varnishes, it generally results in a flatter finish compared to screen printing. Offset printing is known for its crisp, sharp images and consistent color reproduction. Making offset printing ideal for upscale items like brochures, catalogs, and packaging.
Screen Printing & Offset Printing in Tandem?!
Both processes offer unique characteristics that can be tailored to suit the specific requirements of a print job, whether it’s for promotional materials, packaging, boxes or influencer kits. When used together as in the inset photo, you can create a unique design with a feel and texture that sets it apart on the shelf. Calitho having the capability to both screen print and offset print onsite enhances our ability as a printing company to deliver upscale printing services tailored to the needs of discerning clients. Make Calitho your one stop shop for luxury packaging!
Calitho is a commercial printer and visual communications company serving the San Francisco Bay Area and beyond-your one stop shop for luxury packaging . Let us help with your next project by requesting a quote today.
