Our Services - A Complete List Of What We Can Do For You.Offset PrintingThis is the most commonly used method of printing where an image on a plate is “offset” onto rubber blanket cylinders which, in turn, transfers the image to a sheet of paper. The process is based on making the printing image ink receptive and water repellent, while the non-printing areas are rendered water receptive and ink repellent. Offset presses may have more than one printing unit, with each delivering a different color. They come in a range of sizes and can accommodate single sheets as well as rolls of paper. Digital PrintingPerfect for short runs due to the quicker set-up times, digital printing has offered a great alternative for small companies whose budgets might not allow them certain print jobs. But, Digital also has it’s limitations. Sheet sizes are usually 12” x 18” or smaller and only certain papers can be run on digital presses. Also because the ink sits on the paper, it has a tendency to flake off on scores, folds or spines. Coating / VarnishingA clear coating is applied on press or in line, just as another ink color would be to isolated areas on a piece. Spot varnish costs no more than another ink color would cost. Spot varnish comes in glossy or dull finishes and can also be lightly tinted with other inks. Spot gloss varnish is often used to enhance photographs and other imagery by giving them a high sheen and richness similar to the effect achieved with high-gloss paper used for photographic prints. In contrast, dull varnish is often applied only to areas of text on a glossy, coated paper to prevent glare and make photographs and other imagery stand out from the treated type. It offers little protection against scuffing, dirt and spills, but some protection against fingertips. Spot varnish can also prevent flaking and rub-off when applied to metallic inks. Aqueous Coating is a water based finishing applied to the substrate for protection, as well as a variety of finishes. From High Gloss, to Satin or Matte Finishes, Coating can complete your project with a cost effective and professional look. LaminatesLaminating offers the best protection of all methods, yielding an exceptionally strong surface that repels moisture that can even be washed (appropriate laminates only). Laminates are available in varying thicknesses in both gloss and dull finishes, as well as a satin finish that falls in between. Thinner films are more appropriate for book covers and packaging, whereas, thicker films are better suited for menus, displays, and name tags. Laminating is usually more expensive than varnishes and other coatings. Die-CuttingThe process includes making cuts in a printed sheet in a configuration that will allow it to be used or assembled into a functional piece, such as a door hanger, pocket folder, or carton. Die cutting also includes cuts that enhance a piece’s design appeal, such as die cutting a holiday greeting card in the shape of a Christmas tree. Printers often keep a supply of standard dies for common items such as pocket folders and table tents. Cutting labels and decals from printed paper, but not its backing, is called kiss die cutting. Sheets printed this way allow the label or decal to be peeled away from the backing. Embossing & DebossingEmbossing and debossing take printing into a third dimension: depth. Paper is pressed between two molds, called a die, that sculpt its fibers by as much as 1/8 of an inch. Printers use the process for stationary, presentation folders and covers for books and annual reports. Images higher than the rest of the paper are embossed; images lower are debossed. Both are produced under heat to assure fine detail. Heat also makes the images smooth and shiny. Embossing and debossing have identical requirements for type and graphics, skills in die making and press operations, and have similar considerations for paper. Soft paper, such as felt text, takes impressions more easily than hard paper, such as laid bond, and textures may become smooth under pressure. Most customers using heavily textured paper view smoothness as an advantage because of its contrast with the surrounding texture. Ask experienced embossers for their advice before specifying paper and the depth of dies. BindingThere are many ways to bind loose sheets, folded sheets, or signatures together - with its own set of aesthetic, cost, and durability considerations. Here is an overview of the binding options most readily available.
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