Creating custom branded packaging is a significant investment for your business, as it not only enhances brand recognition but also fosters customer loyalty. In addition, it gives your products a polished and appealing look. However, designing custom packaging requires careful planning and preparation to ensure a successful final project. In this blog post, we will guide you through the essential aspects of printing on custom packaging boxes.
Flexographic Printing:
Also known as relief printing, flexographic printing is the most commonly used method for printing on corrugated boxes.
It involves mounting a flexible printing plate on a large rotating cylinder, which then prints the design directly onto the corrugated board as it passes through.
This method is ideal for flood coating, edge-to-edge printing, and designs with 1 or 2 colors.
It is cost-effective, making it suitable for large-volume projects.
Not recommended for intricate graphics or multi-colored designs due to the need for extra printing plates, which can increase costs.
Lithographic Printing:
Also known as offset printing or litho-lamination, lithographic printing differs from other methods.
It prints the design onto paper (in coated or uncoated finish), which is then laminated onto corrugate board and cut to the final box dimensions.
Great for detailed and high-resolution graphics, offering flexibility in terms of imagery and colors.
However, it is the most expensive printing method available.
Digital Printing:
Digital printing involves printing the design directly onto the corrugated board without the need for plates or lamination.
It utilizes the full spectrum of CMYK for printing the final product.
While it eliminates the need for separate color mixing, digital printing can result in imperfections when used for flood coating or large color blocks.
The ink may be absorbed differently based on the board’s color and coating, affecting the design’s vibrancy.
Ideal for short runs and designs that can incorporate these potential imperfections.
Silkscreen Printing:
Silkscreen printing, also known as squeegee printing, involves pushing paint through a mesh screen with a design stencil.
This technique results in high-quality printing and is often preferred for oddly shaped packaging and surfaces like cans, bottles, and promotional merchandise.
It is labor-intensive and more expensive than other methods, making it less suitable for high-volume projects.
Custom-branded packaging can be a rewarding endeavor. It offers a variety of options and decisions to consider, leading to a satisfying final product. When you’re ready to create exceptional custom packaging for your brand, these guides will ensure the process is enjoyable, educational, and productive.