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Printing works refer to the process of packaging design, which involves collecting and organizing design materials according to customer requirements, creating a preliminary sample, revising it based on feedback, and finalizing the design. Modern printing technology is then utilized to produce the finished packaging design. The presentation of packaging design is achieved through printing, which serves as the final carrier for these designs. Printing significantly enhances the effectiveness and quality of packaging design outcomes. Undoubtedly, in the packaging design process, the printing process plays an essential role.
Exquisite works require advanced printing techniques for optimal presentation. The selection of the appropriate printing process is crucial for achieving high-quality results. To enhance the practicality of graphic design, designers should deepen their understanding of the printing process during the design phase.
01 Pre-press Production
To ensure that the design is presented effectively, accurate output is critical. Understanding pre-press production is particularly important before proceeding with printing. Below are key points to consider during the pre-press stage:
① Based on customer requirements, conceptualize a rough design outline, determine the paper size, and define the "bleed" position and size (black-and-white documents do not require bleed).
② Verify page accuracy and preprocess textual information.
③ Set the screen tone range between 3% and 97%.
④ Avoid using colors that may cause printing issues (e.g., pure black, coffee, dark blue, purple, dark green, green). For large areas of pure black, use single-color black for better results.
⑤ For anti-white characters, select clear fonts if the background pattern is complex.
⑥ Ensure the file color mode is set to CMYK.
⑦ Configure output settings, including digital printing file formats, color separation types, and image screening processes.
⑧ Perform plate making and proofing.
02 Printing Process
Common printing processes include offset printing, letterpress printing, gravure printing, and screen printing.
① Offset Printing
Offset printing involves printing on individual sheets of paper using lithographic principles. It is characterized by fast printing speeds, high-quality output, and highly automated equipment. This method is widely used for greeting cards, invitations, book covers, posters, magazines, and packaging.
② Letterpress Printing
Letterpress printing uses raised printing plates where the graphic areas receive thicker ink layers, while the recessed blank areas remain ink-free. When the substrate and plate are pressed together, the ink transfers onto the substrate. This method produces thick ink layers, strong strokes, clear outlines, and vibrant colors. It is commonly used for book covers, trademarks, bills, and business cards.
③ Gravure Printing
Gravure printing is the opposite of letterpress printing, where the text and images are recessed below the plate surface. Ink fills the recessed areas, and the image is transferred onto the substrate. The depth of the recess determines the shading of the image. This method ensures consistent and high-quality results, often used for stamps, coins, and silk. However, its complexity leads to higher costs.
④ Screen Printing
Screen printing belongs to stencil printing and uses photosensitive materials to create screens. The image and text areas are perforated with fine holes, while non-graphic areas are blocked. During printing, ink passes through the holes onto the substrate. Screen printing is versatile, supporting both flat and curved surfaces, as well as hard and soft materials. It is commonly used for bags, plastic products, T-shirts, metal utensils, and glass.
03 Printing Post-processing Technology
Post-processing in printing graphic design refers to the reprocessing and production of printed materials. Common techniques include:
① Laminating. This involves applying either matte or glossy films to enhance moisture resistance, UV protection, wear resistance, stain resistance, water resistance, and heat resistance. Matte film provides a more sophisticated appearance compared to glossy film.
② Varnishing. A layer of plastic film (e.g., crystal film, matte film, soft-touch film) is applied to the printed material for added durability.
③ UV Coating. Ultraviolet light dries and solidifies ink, enhancing product brightness and artistic effects while protecting the surface from scratches and corrosion.
④ Hot Foiling. Metal foils (gold or silver) are thermally transferred onto the printed material, adding metallic texture and visual appeal.
⑤ Embossing/Debossing. Graphics or text are pressed into the material's surface using pressure to create tactile and visual effects.
Additional post-processing techniques include flocking, embossing, glazing, mounting, binding, and cutting. These processes improve the overall quality and aesthetic appeal of printed materials. Each exquisite printing product represents the integration of science, technology, and art, showcasing the synergy between designer creativity and printing expertise.
