Offset Lithography is a printing technique that uses printing plates to transfer the intended image to the intended medium, usually paper. Sometimes this technique is simply called offset printing, or litho. The printing plates are often made of aluminum, but can also be plastic, rubber, paper, or even other materials. The term offset refers to the fact that the image isn’t printed directly to the print material from the plates, but is offset (transferred) to another surface that then makes contact with the print material.
The offset lithography process works by first transferring an image photographically to the printing plates. Rollers then apply a thin layer of water to the plates before adding oil-based ink. Since oil and water don’t mix, the oil-based ink doesn’t adhere to the non-image areas of the plate. A plate is prepared for each color used. Four plates are used for the common 4-color process printing – one for cyan, magenta, yellow, and black (CMYK). The inked image is then transferred to a rubber blanket, that then transfers the image onto the print material as it passes between it and another cylinder beneath the product.
Offset lithography is popular because it is great at producing consistently high quality images, and is a versatile choice since it can be used for small or high volume print jobs, as well as print on flat surfaces of various textures.
Flexible vs. Fixed Agency Pricing
Understanding the Key Advantages of Selecting a Digital Agency with Flexible Pricing vs. a Traditional Agency with Fixed Pricing. When it comes to selecting an agency meant to augment a marketing team or department, it’s critical to understand the limitations pricing models create or eliminate. Businesses must find an agency partner that understands their brand’s…
Why You Should Care About Branding Your Business
It is safe to assume most everyone will look you up on Google prior to visiting your business, hiring you for a service, or purchasing your products and/or services. Whenever you interact with people, whether in-person or online, how you present your brand is exceedingly important. Think of all of the brands you know. While…
What is Brand Consistency and Why is it Important?
Brand consistency means always delivering messages aligned with the core brand values in the same tone, presenting the brand’s visual language in a consistent way, and repeating the same colors throughout the cohesive brand experience. Over time, these elements become ingrained in the minds of consumers, and they’re more likely to remember your brand. Brand…
What is Clear Space?
Clear space refers to a specific amount of are a logo is defined to have on all sides (in a brand standards manual or house style guide), no matter where the logo is applied. The reason for clear space is to ensure the logo maximizes visibility and impact. There is no set rule for defining…
A Brief Bio of Paul Rand
Even if you aren’t familiar with the name Paul Rand, you are definitely familiar with his work. Paul Rand was an American graphic designer and art director, who essentially defined the visual culture in America in the decades following World War II – and revolutionized how we think about corporate logos today. He was born…
5 Reasons Successful Branding Is Important
In today’s highly competitive marketplace, building a strong brand identity is crucial for businesses looking to stand out and connect with their target audience. A well-crafted brand strategy not only delivers a clear and compelling message but also creates an emotional connection with customers, reinforces credibility, and inspires loyalty. In this article, we’ll explore six…
How to Create a Brand
Building a strong brand is essential for any business looking to stand out in today’s highly competitive market. A successful branding strategy can help you connect with your target audience, build trust, and differentiate your business from your competitors. Here are some tips on how to build a strong brand for your business: Determine your…
Advertising, Marketing, or Branding Agency?
Choosing an agency to help with your advertising, marketing, or branding needs can seem overwhelming. The agency you choose will play an important role in determining how your potential clients view your company. Which one do you need? If you imagine agencies in healthcare terms – marketing agencies are generalists (the basic needs), advertising agencies…
