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Custom Processes

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We'll take care of your printing needs.

Don't know much about printing? That's ok, because we do! Check out the printing processes we offer below and click on any of the underlined items to find out more information.

In-House Processes include:

Printing Terminology Guide

Q: What is the difference between 4-color process vs. PMS spot colors?

Process color printing uses the color model that describes each color in terms of the quantity of each secondary color (cyan, magenta, yellow), and "key" (black) to produce virtually any color. PMS color matching uses a Pantone® color guide to pick an exact color specified. We have press capabilities that can print up to 8 colors, which gives you the opportunity to use 4 color process with additional spot colors and/or finishes to get a truly desirable finish.

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Q: What is Hexachrome®?

Hexachrome is combination of purer CMYK plus PANTONE Hexachrome Orange and PANTONE Hexachrome Green inks extend the gamut dramatically when compared to four-color process printing. And in most areas of the color spectrum, it either meets or exceeds the gamut of RGB. This means that designs created for print can have the same vibrancy as seen on-screen.

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Q: What is MetalFX®?

MetalFX® Technology is a revolutionary printing process that can be used to produce up to 104 million metallic colors in one pass of a five-color press. This enables the choice of an unlimited range of metallic colors, without the expense of multiple spot inks to add shine depth and life to your design. Go to www.Metal-FX.com to find out more.

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Q: What are UV Inks & Coatings?

UV inks and coatings are desirable because they essentially do not contain solvent that must evaporate during the curing phase. The cure takes place under a strong UV (ultra violet) light source in a dryer (or reactor). Since UV contains little or no solvent, there is a lot of interest in using it because of the lack of VOC's (volatile organic compounds). VOC's can be potentially hazardous to breathe and dispose, thus the reduction is appealing to the environment.

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Q: What is foil stamping?

Foil stamping is a process where a shiny metallic leaf is physically stamped with heat and pressure onto the substrate. Benefits are a highly reflective finish that demands attention. We carry a wide selection of standard foil colors in metallic, nonmetallic and special effects categories.

Our Standard Foil Colors (click to view):

Metallic Colors

  • Gold
  • Dull Gold
  • Silver
  • Dull Silver
  • Copper
  • Antique Brass
  • Electric Blue
  • Sapphire Blue
  • Red Burgundy
  • Green
  • Teal

Non-Metallic Colors

  • Black
  • White
  • Cardinal
  • True Blue
  • Hunter Green
  • Yellow
  • Light Blue
  • Clear

Premium Foils

  • Brushed Gold
  • Brushed Aluminum
  • Mini Pillars Vertical
  • Spectrum

Q: What is Embossing/Debossing?

Embossing and Debossing is the process of leaving a relief imprint on substrate. It is applied in the same process as foil stamping, in which a metal die is pressed to leave an impression.

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Q: What is Die Cutting?

We have the capabilities for using custom cutting dies during the production phase of printing. This gives you opportunity to push the envelope when creating totally unique packaging, and also have custom prototypes made to see what your ideas will look like before production.

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Q: What is Lamination?

The ultimate in lasting impression! Lamination involves the bonding of a thin, transparent layer of film to the surface of a printed sheet. Colors become brilliant and your graphics will be eye-catching. It can be foil stamped, embossed, and even spot varnished.

The ultimate in durability! Film lamination is the most durable and scuff-resistant finish that can be applied to your packaging product. It resists tearing and is ideal for folders and products that are handled frequently. It never loses its luster and can be wiped clean. This means your printed product will last longer, increasing value and cost effectiveness.

The Effects of Film Lamination on Color
Film Laminates are not 100% transparent and can shift color balance. Gloss films usually have little effect on color. This is not the case with matte or delustered films, where dramatic color shift can occur in extreme cases. If color is critical, it is recommended to approve a finished proof with film laminate on it. Available in gloss, satin and delustered finishes.

  • Looks and feels richer than paper alone.
  • Deepens and brightens colors.
  • Enhances contrast.
  • Adds toughness and durability.
  • Scuff and scratch resistant.
  • Can be applied to coated and uncoated paper stocks as well as specialty stock.
  • Moisture resistant.
There are three base films used in thermal laminating:

1. Polyester
(PET) is the film of choice for most applications. It is the industry's most popular film. Polyester has high tensile, tear and impact strength. Since it does not contain plasticizers, it will not become brittle with age. Polyester is available with a gluable/stampable coating. An excellent choice for foil stamping and turned edge applications. Available in gloss, satin and delustered finishes.

2. Polypropylene (OPP) is the clearest of all films, but lacks the toughness, durability and heat resistance of Polyester film. Because of its softness, OPP has poor scuff resistance. Available in gloss, satin and delustered finishes.

3. Nylon is generally more expensive than the other two films. However, it is the most stable. Due to it's unique stability and non-curling properties. Nylon is the best solution for moisture-related curl problems in single-sided laminating applications. Gloss Nylon features good clarity and excellent abrasion resistance.

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Q: What is Aqueous Coating?

An aqueous coating is a fast-drying, water-based, protective coating that is applied in-line on press to achieve a variety of finishes at a more economical price than varnish.

Your job goes through our facility quicker! Aqueous coatings are applied to your printed sheet immediately following the inks. Directly after the coating is applied, the sheets are sent through a heated air system that quickly dries the coating. The printed sheets can move on to the finishing department within minutes, as opposed to conventional varnishes which may need hours or even days to dry.

Protect your image!
Aqueous coatings provide excellent rub and scuff resistance. They give protection that far exceeds standard varnishes. Your product will be resistant to smudges, fingerprints and scratches during shipment through to end use. They are available in gloss and matte finishes.

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Q: What is Printing Varnish?

Varnishes are clear, resinous liquids applied to printed surfaces to improve the appearance of the product. They can be either matte or dull finish. Varnishes also offer a level of protection, although it is not as protective as aqueous based coatings.

One advantage to varnishes is that they can be applied in spot areas to accent a particular photo or graphic on the printed sheet. Aqueous coatings, on the other hand, are applied overall to the sheet.

Varnishes are best applied to coated stocks. Uncoated stocks will soak the varnish into the paper so it's virtually invisible.

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