Designers' Corner

The end result of your printing process depends on many factors: paper, ink, process and finishes. Here are a few topics to think about when choosing the material you will print on and your printing process.

• Process
• Line Screen
• Budget
• Medium

Printing Process
Different presses offer different results. Offset is best used for complicated graphics and four color photography, although sheet size is limited. Digital is cost-effective for short runs and variable information printing. Screen printing is valuable for combined board printing as it does not crush the flutes. Flexography results are highly influenced by the absorbency of the material used. Letterpress works well for simpler markings and strong color. Take a look through Printing Processes and Offset vs. Digital: Pros and Cons for more detail.

Line Screen
The higher the line screen, the more refined your graphics will look. Choose a line screen that will meet the demands of your design.

direct = direct to corrugated
sheet or web = sheet or web process for preprinting the liner, label or top sheet)

Budget
Accurate cost estimates must take many factors into account, including box use, quantities, inks and papers. For sophisticated retail display, the expense of offset, photography and many ink colors is warranted. But for a straightforward shipping container with minimal graphics, one-color flexography will serve your needs. The important thing to remember is that we can work with you to make sure your project fits your needs and your budget.

Printed Medium
Especially when labeling combined board, consider the smoothness, brightness and opacity of your printing medium. Smoothness is a measure of paper surface irregularities, which affects the appearance of printing. Aside from its aesthetic importance, paper brightness affects the legibility and contrast of printing. Opacity is the lack of transparency that allows a sheet to conceal print on its reverse side.

Finishes
Think about your boxes end use and if you need special finishes for regulated items such as food or to protect sensitive electronics. Check our list of finishes for detail.