A Breakdown of What to Expect for Your Project
What Is Offset?
Let’s start with a definition: Offset printing is a method of creating high-quality printed materials in large quantities by utilizing a system of rotating cylinders to stamp ink onto various mediums. While we mention various mediums, this technique is primarily used for printing on paper. When bulk printing is the name of the game, offset is the ideal choice, as it efficiently handles print runs of 1,000 or more! It’s important to note that this is not flexographic printing, you can learn more about that technique right here.
Let’s dive in…
The Different Types of Offset Printing
Offset printing is broken down into three simple categories. Each approach has its own unique method for creating crisp prints. No matter which technique is used for your project, you can expect high-quality and desirable results for your bulk printing needs. The three types include: Web, Sheet-fed, and Quick-set. Don’t worry, just keep scrolling for more!
Web
Ever wondered how books or magazines are printed? Well, wonder no longer. Web offset printing is how it’s done. This approach utilizes a continuous sheet of paper that is only cut or separated after the printing process. This method streamlines the printing process, making it ideal for large orders intended for distribution.
Sheet-fed
The main difference here is that pages and/or paper rolls are cut before printing. This enables a more targeted print for each piece of paper that goes through the machine. As paper is fed into the machine, each single piece of paper is pushed along via an air jet. This allows for individual printing errors to be resolved quickly, without stopping the entire printing process as each sheet is already cut.
Quick-set
As the name suggests, this method dries the quickest out of the three and is ideal for those who desire a quick turnaround time. By using quick-set ink, the images are set quickly into the medium, which in turn saves ink. This method is great for periodicals, trademarks, or even instruction manuals.
So, What Do I Pick?
Actually, we’ll do the picking for ya! As one of our customers, it’s helpful to know about the different approaches to printing, but you don’t have to sweat making a choice here. Our expert printing team will handle everything for you. Just show us the design (or let us create one for you), and tell us how many copies you need–Then leave the rest to us!