Custom labels and stickers are an essential tool for businesses in the current market. Not only do they allow companies to easily display their branding, but they also provide a way to make a product more visually appealing and memorable. Print technology has come a long way in recent years, and there are now several options available for businesses looking to create custom stickers and labels. And we are here to introduce you to five of them.
1. Thermal printing
The oldest technology still in use today is thermal printing. Thermal printers are heavily used in many industries, such as retail and food labels, due to their low cost and quick print speeds. Thermal printing involves applying heat to a special ribbon that then transfers the ink onto paper or plastic material. This method is usually used for monochrome prints, but can also be used for some basic full-colour prints.
2. Laser printing
Laser printing is another popular print technology, especially for more intricate designs and logos. Laser printers use a laser beam to draw the design onto a sheet of paper or plastic material which is then transferred onto the label or sticker. This method provides good quality results in terms of clarity and sharpness but can be expensive to set up.
3. Inkjet printing
Inkjet printing is one of the most common methods used by professional sticker makers today, due to its affordability and how easy it is to use. An inkjet printer works by using tiny dots of ink that are sprayed onto the paper or plastic material to create the desired design. This method provides a good range of colours and can also be used to create intricate designs. The best printer for this type of printing is an Indigo press, so be sure to check if your sticker maker of choice uses it.
4. Dye-sublimation printing
Dye-sublimation printing is another popular choice, especially for full-colour prints. This method works by transferring dyes from a special ribbon onto the paper or plastic material, which then absorbs it. This method provides clear and vibrant results in terms of colour, but is not suitable for detailed designs.
5. Impact printing
The last technology we will discuss is impact printing, which uses a typewriter-like mechanism to create the design. This method produces good quality results in terms of clarity and sharpness but is very time-consuming and, therefore, not cost-effective.
In conclusion, there are five main technologies used to make custom printed labels and stickers: thermal printing, laser printing, inkjet printing, dye-sublimation printing and impact printing. Each one has its own advantages and disadvantages depending on the required design and budget available. It is important to do your research before deciding which method will best suit your needs. Doing this can help ensure that you make the right decision for your custom labels and stickers.