Personalization of promotional materials
Choosing the right item for your promotional needs is only half the success equation. The appearance of your logo or the design of your advertising message is equally important. To ensure the best possible presentation of your brand, we offer various personalization technologies, from traditional methods to the most modern digital technologies. Get to know their specifics and choose the most suitable one for your promotion.
Digital printing
Digital printing on promotional items is a modern technique that involves the direct application of digital images onto various surfaces. This method is highly versatile and allows for high-quality, detailed graphics to be transferred onto promotional products with precision and efficiency. Digital printing is particularly effective for items that require full-color, complex designs or small print runs, as it does not require the creation of physical printing plates. It can be applied to a wide range of materials, including paper, plastic, metal, and fabric, making it suitable for promotional items such as pens, bags, mugs, and T-shirts. However, the technique has its limitations and may not be suitable for materials that are highly textured or extremely heat-sensitive, as the ink may not adhere properly or the material may be damaged by the heat used in the printing process.
Digital transfer
Digital transfer is a technique used to decorate promotional items, where a design is first printed onto a special transfer paper and then applied to the product's surface through heat and pressure. This method allows for vibrant, full-color images with intricate details to be transferred onto a variety of items. It is particularly well-suited for textiles such as T-shirts, caps, bags, and also hard goods like mugs, coasters, and some plastic items, offering a durable and long-lasting design. However, digital transfer has its limitations. It is less effective on materials that cannot withstand the heat required for the transfer, such as certain plastics and synthetic fabrics that may melt or deform. Additionally, very rough or uneven surfaces may not receive the transfer evenly, leading to imperfect results.
Embroidery
Embroidery is a sophisticated technique used to embellish promotional items with threaded designs, offering a textured, durable, and premium finish. This method involves stitching designs directly onto the item using multi-head embroidery machines, which can accurately recreate complex logos and text in a variety of thread colors. Embroidery is particularly suited for fabric-based items such as polo shirts, hats, jackets, and bags, where the natural give of the material accommodates the tension of the stitched design without compromising the integrity of the product. However, embroidery is not suitable for all materials. Very thin or delicate fabrics can be damaged by the needle penetration, while hard or non-porous surfaces like metal, plastic, and some types of leather cannot be embroidered at all. Despite these limitations, the elegance and perceived value added by embroidery make it a popular choice for businesses looking to elevate their promotional merchandise.
Laser engraving
Laser engraving is a precise and versatile technique used to customize promotional items by laser engraving the design directly onto the surface of the product. This method is known for its accuracy and ability to create fine details, making it ideal for logos, text and intricate graphics. Laser engraving can be applied to a wide range of materials, including metal, wood, glass, leather and certain types of plastic, offering a durable and elegant finish that increases the perceived value of an item. The process involves using a laser beam to remove the surface material, creating a contrast that reveals the design. For certain cylindrical objects, such as glass, plastic or metal bottles, among other printing techniques, the option of 360-degree circular laser engraving is also available. Laser circular engraving is only possible on objects without handles.
Pad printing
Pad printing is a versatile printing technique used to transfer a 2D image onto a 3D object. This method involves transferring ink from an etched plate onto the product through a soft silicone pad, making it especially suitable for printing on irregular surfaces. Pad printing can be applied to a broad range of materials, including plastics, metals, ceramics, and even softer materials like textiles and leather, allowing for high versatility in promotional item customization. The adaptability of the silicone pad makes it possible to print on curved, textured, or uneven surfaces, which is a significant advantage over other printing methods. However, pad printing has its limitations. Very large surfaces can be challenging to print on due to the size constraints of the pads and plates. Additionally, extremely porous materials may not hold the ink well, leading to less defined prints.
Screen printing
Screen printing is a popular technique for decorating promotional items, characterized by its ability to produce vibrant, durable designs on a variety of materials. This method involves pushing ink through a mesh screen that has been prepared with a stencil of the desired image. Screen printing is highly versatile and can be applied to materials such as textiles, including cotton and polyester fabrics, making it ideal for T-shirts, bags, and hats. It is also effective on paper, wood, and some types of plastic and metal, allowing for a wide range of promotional products to be customized. However, screen printing has its limitations. It is not well-suited for materials that are extremely delicate or heat-sensitive, as the curing process requires heat. Additionally, very rough or uneven surfaces may not achieve a clean print due to the inability of the screen to make even contact.
Screen transfer
Screen transfer, also known as heat transfer printing, combines screen printing with a heat transfer process to decorate promotional items. Initially, designs are screen printed onto a special transfer paper. Then, under heat and pressure, the image is transferred from the paper to the item. This technique allows for high-quality, detailed designs on a variety of materials including textiles like cotton, polyester, and blends, making it ideal for apparel, bags, and caps. It's also effective on materials that can withstand the required heat, such as certain plastics and ceramics, enabling customization of a wide range of promotional products. However, screen transfer is not suitable for materials that are heat-sensitive or can be damaged by high temperatures, such as some plastics and synthetic fabrics. Additionally, very rough or uneven surfaces may challenge the uniformity and adherence of the transfer.
Sublimation print
Sublimation printing is a technique that offers vibrant, full-color, and durable designs on promotional items. This process involves converting solid dye particles into gas using heat and pressure, which then bond with the molecular structure of the substrate. Sublimation is particularly effective on polyester fabrics and polymer-coated items, making it ideal for creating high-quality, photographic prints on T-shirts, mouse pads, mugs, and other promotional merchandise. The technique ensures that the print will not peel, crack, or wash away, providing a long-lasting finish. However, sublimation printing has its limitations. It cannot be applied to materials that cannot withstand high temperatures or are not polymer-coated, such as 100% cotton fabrics or uncoated metals. Additionally, sublimation works best on light or white backgrounds, as the dye cannot overpower darker materials.
Epoxy 3D doming
Epoxy doming is a decorative technique that adds a clear, protective, and three-dimensional coating to the surface of promotional items. This process involves applying a liquid epoxy resin over a printed label or directly onto the product, which then hardens to form a clear, dome-shaped cover. Epoxy doming is versatile and can be applied to a variety of materials, including metals, plastics, and even some types of wood, making it suitable for items such as keychains, badges, stickers, and promotional pens. The dome not only enhances the visual appeal of the item by adding depth and magnification to the underlying design but also provides a durable protective layer that is resistant to scratches, water, and UV light. However, epoxy doming is not suitable for materials that are highly flexible or porous, as the resin may not adhere properly or could be absorbed by the material, compromising the dome's integrity. Additionally, items with very rough or uneven surfaces may not achieve a smooth, even dome.
Ceramic transfer
This is a technique of transferring a design or logo onto the surface of ceramic objects using a specialized printing process. It enables the transfer of intricate and complex details to ceramic surfaces, creating personalized promotional items that are visually extremely attractive. The process begins with the creation of a design that will be transferred to the ceramic object. This design is then printed on special transfer paper using high-quality, temperature-resistant ink. The transfer paper is precisely positioned on the surface of the ceramic object, after which it is baked in an oven at 700 degrees, during which the pores of the ceramic material open and absorb the paint from the paper. Once the transfer process is complete, the ceramic object is cooled and the transfer paper is removed, leaving a permanently baked design. The technique is applied to a wide range of promotional items, including mugs, plates, mugs, coasters and other ceramic items.
UV Rotary 360° printing
UV rotary printing is a technology that allows high resolution full color images to be printed directly onto roll and cone promotional items with 360 degree coverage. It is used for objects made of plastic, glass, metal or even wood. The article is placed on a rotating shaft, which then rotates in very precise movements while the print head ejects a stream of ink that is hardened by UV rays. Glasses, water bottles and mugs are some of the most popular promotional items for personalization with this printing technique. Also, sports equipment such as golf balls, baseballs and even hockey pucks can be printed with team logos or player names using UV rotary printing. For events and trade shows, this technique can personalize items such as pens, key chains and even candles, creating a lasting impression on potential customers.
Hot stamping
Hot stamping is a popular technique used for adding text, logos, or designs onto promotional items. This dry printing method involves the use of heat and pressure to transfer a thin layer of foil onto the surface of the material, creating a high-quality, durable finish. The process begins with creating a custom metal die, which is then heated and pressed against the foil, causing it to adhere to the material's surface in the desired pattern. Hot stamping can be applied to a variety of materials, making it a versatile option for customizing promotional products. Common materials that work well with this technique include paper, cardboard, leather, plastic, and fabric. The method is particularly suitable for creating eye-catching designs on items such as notebooks, folders, bags, and clothing. Furthermore, hot stamping allows for the use of various foil colors and finishes, including metallic, holographic, and matte options, providing endless possibilities for creating unique, visually appealing designs.
DDC - Direct Digital CMYK
CMYK is a subtractive color model used in color printing. By combining different percentages of cyan, magenta, yellow and black, a wide range of colors can be produced. Direct digital CMYK printing uses this color model to accurately reproduce the design in full color on the substrate. Unlike traditional printing methods such as offset printing, this technique does not require printing plates resulting in shorter production times and reduced production costs, especially for small runs. This technique is suitable for inexpensive multi-color printing on absorbent surfaces. Additionally, DD-CMYK allows for quick and easy design updates, as well as print-on-demand capabilities, making it a cost-effective option for businesses with changing promotional needs. It produces excellent prints on paper, raw plywood, cardboard, raw cork and other cardboard products and is suitable for use on white products as well. Direct digital CMYK printing offers high-resolution prints with vivid colors and intricate details, making it suitable for reproducing complex designs, photographs and illustrations. Although it can be applied to a variety of materials, it is not suitable for materials with uneven or porous surfaces or those sensitive to moisture or heat.
DTF - Direct to Film
DTF is a versatile thermal transfer printing technology that features smooth color transitions. In the first step, the design is printed on a special transfer film using an ink-jet printer. Then a layer of powdered glue is applied to the design. Finally, the design is heat-pressed onto the promotional item, fusing the ink and adhesive to the surface. It is crucial that the material can withstand the heat press temperature, which is usually around 150 to 170 °C, without being deformed. This process enables the transfer of detailed and colorful designs of high quality and vibrant colors to a wide range of materials. It is excellent for personalizing textile bags, hats, t-shirts, as well as for other flat surfaces. Prints created through DTF are highly durable and resistant to fading, washing and general wear and tear, ensuring that personalized items retain their quality over time. DTF printing is relatively fast and efficient, making it suitable for both small and large production runs.
Debossing
Embossing is a mechanical process by which a 3D indented print is formed on the surface of an object using a specially made metal matrix (stamp). The design or text to be embossed is first created or prepared digitally. It can be a company logo, text or graphics. Based on this design, a metal matrix or mold is made. The die is usually made of a material such as brass, copper or magnesium and represents the negative of the design for embossing. The die is then placed on the desired surface of the material and pressure is applied, either by hand or with a press machine, to press the die into the material. As pressure is applied, the die presses the material down, creating a recessed area that matches the shape and design of the die. This results in a tactile and visually appealing, three-dimensional appearance. Embossing is a popular choice for items where a subtle, tactile effect is desired, such as business cards, notebooks, diaries, packaging and leather goods.