What Are the Best Techniques for Printing on Kraft Paper?

Kraft paper is a type of paper that is particularly durable and biodegradable, and that is commonly used in packaging and other materials which serve for the production of handicrafts. It has a natural brown shade which gives it a rather old-fashioned look, perfect for use by companies that want to create an organic or vintage look. However, to maximize the potential of kraft paper the right print methods have to be considered. This article provides different ways to print on kraft paper and some tricks for better print quality.

Understanding Kraft Paper

Let us first know what kraft paper is before getting to the matter of printing techniques. Kraft paper is a type of paper which is made from wood pulp and is characterized by its strength and tear resistance. This type is widely applied in the packaging industry, production of bags and other articles. This paper contains a natural grain texture that causes some difficulties with the ink to stick when printing. But, it is necessary to choose the right method of printing to achieve the required appearance of the product.

Digital Printing

Versatility: Digital printing can use different colors and you can print any design for kraft paper with a logo. It means that brands are allowed to develop their designs without having to spend on the expensive equipment that is required in conventional printing processes.

Quick Turnaround: This is a big advantage of digital printing because a company can produce small runs of products for a particular season or occasion. This is especially good for companies that need kraft paper that is printed and only used for specific promotions.

High Detail: Digital printers can produce detailed and very detailed prints with the ability to capture even the last intricate detail of a logo to be printed on the final product.

But what has to be made clear is that digital printers are not the same. It is therefore essential that the most appropriate printer is chosen for the kraft paper if the best prints are to be produced. In such a situation it becomes necessary to make sure that the ink used by the printer sticks on the rough kraft paper.

Flexographic Printing

Another technique of printing on kraft paper is Flexographic printing. This method employs the use of easily bendable relief plates and thus enables high-speed printing. Flexography has its biggest applicability in bulk printing and is widely used for custom kraft paper wholesale purposes.

Advantages of Flexographic Printing

Cost-Effective for Large Runs: Although the equipment investment may be relatively high, flexographic printing is most cost-efficient in the long run, particularly for high-volume orders. This means that it is a perfect solution for companies that require several pieces of custom-printed kraft paper.

Variety of Inks: Water-based ink and green ink can be used in flexographic printing. This is quite appropriate for sustainability because several companies are reducing their carbon footprint.

Speed and Efficiency: This method is suitable for high-speed production, thus it is ideal for bulk production. Businesses that require wholesale custom kraft paper can therefore gain a lot from this efficiency.

However, there are several disadvantages of flexographic printing, among them it cannot give the detailed print as we have in digital printing. Hence, for those designs that involve fine details or colors, businesses may choose to use both techniques.

Screen Printing

Screen printing, or more formally, silk screening is a process where ink is forced through a mesh screen onto paper. This method is most suitable for designs that use few colors since it is very suitable for custom kraft paper design that demands bright and vibrant colors.

Benefits of Screen Printing

Durability: Screen printing applies ink thick on the fabric hence it does not easily wear off. This is particularly beneficial for kraft paper products which may develop some cigarette-like tears in the course of transportation or even after transportation.

Color Vibrancy: In addition, the density of ink used gives the kraft paper a bright color that is in contrast with its natural color. It is rather useful for producing striking packaging that will turn heads.

Customization: Screen printing makes it easier to add a lot of detail to the design since it means that businesses can come up with designs that can be associated with their brand. For packaging, to be used in flyers, or even for events that require custom-printed kraft paper, this is convenient.

However, screen printing may not be the best for detailed designs with color on the design because each color requires its own screen. Based on the mentioned, this technique should be selected if the businesses see the advantages, which are described above, as more important for their particular design needs.

Offset Printing

In the offset printing process, ink is applied to a rubber blanket which is then rolled onto the kraft paper. This method is most appropriate in high-volume printing since it guarantees quality in every production that a company may need.

Advantages of Offset Printing

Consistency: Offset printing produces accurate and standard prints which is why it is most suitable for bulk printing of custom kraft paper. This is especially so for companies that would like to maintain a standard appearance of their packaging.

Color Precision: This leads to better control of the color thus the brand color is always well echoed on all the products. Cheese paper is printed in numerous companies hence the companies can get the specific shades they require for their custom-printed kraft paper.

Variety of Finishes: This makes offset printing versatile in the type of finish that can be used for instance gloss, matte and textured finish to suit the business needs.

Offset printing can indeed be quite useful for large projects, however, for small orders the expenses on the plates could be counterproductive. This is a printing technique that is best suitable for businesses that have high volume needs.

Conclusion

The use of kraft paper is perfect for businesses that want to communicate the idea of being natural and environmentally friendly. Through the choice of the right printing method be it digital, flexographic, screen or offset printing companies can get high-quality and custom-printed products that can be used for their branding. Learning the differences of each method and designing for the selected method will guarantee a great outcome. Whether it’s for personalized kraft paper with a logo or for buying wholesale custom kraft paper for business use, these tips will assist brands in market differentiation.