Graphic Design & Printing

The Benefits of Digital Printing

Digital printing is a process of reproducing an image from a digital based computer file directly onto the host media. It typically refers to digital printing, which can be performed by state-of-the-art computer printers using high-quality ink and/or laser and inkjet technologies. It is an effective choice for use in mass print, trade show promotions, small business marketing efforts, and many other commercial and promotional activities. The capability to customize digital printing with different media options, including mattes, vinyl, plastics, and foil gives a printing company in Carrollton, Texas with the ability to meet client expectations and deliver professional services.

Print shops in Texas that utilize digital printing technology have the ability to manage large runs of orders quickly and efficiently. This option over traditional offset printing provides print shops in Texas the ability to produce a large number of high quality marketing materials for a fraction of the cost. Large format marketing materials such as custom signs and banners with custom displays are popular because they provide businesses with the ability to attract new customers and retain existing ones. Small businesses often benefit from digital printing because it enables them to produce customized advertising and promotional materials on a much smaller scale than would be possible with offset printing.

The process of digital printing involves three key stages: set up, transfer, and delivery. A set-up stage involves preparing the ink jet or printer cartridges, mounted print plates, and paper for the targeted print run. Transfer stage consists of transferring the printed images to either flat stock or heavy stock materials.

After the transfer step, the image is transferred onto substrates such as polyester, pvc, or gloss. The final step of digital printing is delivery, which typically includes either lamination or heat printing the images directly onto substrates. Lamination involves the use of heat press, which applies pressure to apply the lamination sheet directly onto the substrate. Heat printing uses chemicals to bond the lamination to the substrate, while foil lamination employs a heat laminator that melts the lamination and pushes it into the substrate.

Digital print products come in a variety of styles, sizes, and materials. Popular options include fabrics, plastics, nylon, polyester, and paperboard. Some manufacturers specialize in only one or two digital printing machines, leaving the designs up to independent designers or small businesses. Fabric choices range from pre-cut fabrics to special projects requiring specific dimensions. Paperboard and plastics offer the easiest means to incorporate digital printing in a print production environment.

The benefits of digital printing make it an economical choice over offset print solutions. The production process is faster and more efficient than traditional print media, and there are a myriad of options for the design and customization. As the Internet becomes more widely used for marketing, the demand for print products has expanded to include services beyond traditional direct marketing and promotions. Printing can now be found in the fields of business cards, invitations, posters, and nearly every other product you can think of.