http://signius.com | Printing is a vital form of communication for consumers. A variety of printing methods exist, each serving its own use depending on the type of product or label needed.

2. Printing remains vital for mass communication as it conveys meaning in a wide variety
of formats and applications. The following describes the various types of printing and
their uses as a means to share important information, instructions, and promotional
messages to consumers.

3. Silkscreen printing is highly
versatile. In the process, a
fine silk or polyester mesh is
stretched tightly on a frame.
A negative is created on the
screen and ink is applied onto
that screen. The screen is
then pressed on the material
being printed. Once the ink
has been applied, the
product is dried with ultra-
violet lighting. Photosensitive
screens are used in most
applications, which utilize a
light sensitive emulsion and
exposure to UV light.
Silkscreen printing can create
images on t-shirts, banners,
mouse pads, wood, plastic,
paper, and more.

4. Flexographic printing
uses flexible rubber or
plastic printing plates
with slightly raised
images that are spun on
a cylinder. The process
transfers the image on
the plates to the
substrate material using
a fast drying ink.
Flexographic printing
can print on both
absorbent and non-
absorbent mediums,
including foil, paper,
plastic, or acetate film.
It’s often used to print
on packaging materials.

5. Digital printing is a multipurpose form of printing that makes use of several processes, printing
styles, and ink choices. In digital printing, software is used to move data from an art file to the
software then the printer. Digital printing is faster than traditional printing techniques.
Digital printing is used on paper, plastic labels, outdoor signs, banners, window decals, and
more.

6. MetalPhoto printing uses light exposure to embed an image onto photosensitive anodized
aluminum materials. When the image is embedded, it is sealed and finished. MetalPhoto is
used in harsh environments or where durability is a high priority.
MetalPhoto is used for metal tags, labels, military UID barcodes, low-reflection labels on night-
vision goggles, landscape architecture and environmental design installations, and more.

7. Converting and die cutting involve converting raw materials into finished goods that can be
used in more efficient manners. This process can make use of a variety of dies, slitting
machines, and materials. Laser die cutting uses a laser beam to cut the materials that you
would usually cut utilizing a steel rule die.
Converting and die cutting is used to cut specialized gaskets, spacers, and other items that
will be embossed or printed with company labels or to cut materials for use as labels.

8. Injection molding injects
plastics into molds to
create pre-labeled
products. In injection
molding, the label
becomes a part of the
product. Injection molded
labels have greater wear
resistance and often offer
more decorating options
as they can be created in
any color, size, shape, or
depth.
Injection molding is
typically used for
consumer electronics
products, plastic bottles,
and a variety of other
plastic products.

9. Offset printing transfers
inks from a plate to the
substrate. This is one of
the older methods of
printing, but new
technology has
expanded its utility.
Offset printing provides
consistent image
quality, low cost, quick
and easy production of
plates, and ease of ink
control.
Offset printing is
primarily used for
brochures, labels, flyers,
cartons, and more.

10. When choosing a printing method for product labels, consulting with specialists in printing
and labeling can help you devise the ideal solution. Southern Coating & Nameplate, Inc.
has 40 years of experience providing printing and labeling solutions. With a 50,000 sq. ft.
facility and more than 50 employees, SCN has the skills, experience, and capacity to help
product manufacturers and marketers create eye-catching and effective labels and
marketing materials.
Visit the website at http://www.scninc.com/ Call at 800-430-4554