What is so special about Flexographic Printing?

Here at Inbox Group, we pride ourselves on being able to deliver on all of our client’s needs. This includes custom print packaging. One of the easiest and most cost-effective ways to achieve this is by utilising flexographic printing.

What is flexographic printing?

Flexography or flexo for short, is a form of printing process which utilises a flexible relief plate. Put more simply, it is the modern-day letterpress, which has been highly evolved with elevated speed rotary functionality which can be used on almost any substance. This includes plastic, metallic films, cellophane, paper and of course cardboard. 

In the digital print age, flexographic is fantastic for large print runs and utilises a quick-drying, semiliquid ink. Because of these inks, flexo is well-suited to continuous pattern printing such as wrapping paper or wallpaper. And unlike individual sheets of paper that are used in offset printing, the roll in flexographic printing allows for large print runs with little to no interruptions.

As with all custom print work, flexographic printing is rarely the same from client to client. As such new tooling is required for each specific item. Your first order for any custom packaging has a tooling charge included as a separate amount on your quote. The tooling fees are not charged again unless your custom packaging requirements change. Plates and dies are used many times before they need replacing, so your initial investment on tooling pays off, as they are reused on future orders.

Advantages of flexographic printing:

  • Prints on a wide variety of materials.
  • Is ideally suited for long runs.
  • Handles all printing, varnishing, laminating, and die cutting in a single pass.

Disadvantages of flexographic printing:

  • The cost of the flexo printing plates is high, so your initial tooling fee may be higher than expected. 
  • If version changes are necessary, they do take time to implement, which will delay re-printing.

Want to learn more about our custom printing processes? Then get in touch with our team today on the following details: Contact us or call 1300 97 88 55.