Digital & UV Printing

UV printing and other digital printing methods put a full-colour design straight onto the product, without screens, plates or transfers. In UV printing, the printer jets ink onto the surface and a UV lamp cures it immediately, so the ink grips materials that ordinary inks would slide off. It is ideal for photographic logos, gradients and multi-colour artwork on hard items, and for runs where each colour would otherwise need its own setup.

Where UV printing is used

UV printing works on flat or gently curved rigid surfaces, including:

• plastic and metal items such as power banks, wireless chargers and USB flash drives;
• wood and bamboo, for example desk accessories and boxes;
• glass and acrylic, including awards;
• notebook covers, pens and keyrings where the listing names UV or digital print.

Digital printing on paper and card is used for calendars, printed boxes and stickers.

Benefits and trade-offs of UV and digital printing

The big advantage is that a full-colour design costs much the same to set up as a one-colour logo. Fine detail, small text and photographic elements come out sharp, and a white underbase makes colours pop on dark or transparent items. UV printers can also add a raised or gloss effect on some products.

The limits are mostly about shape and wear. Strongly curved, very small or textured surfaces are harder to print evenly. On items that are handled constantly or washed often, such as mugs in a dishwasher, the print is less resistant than laser engraving or ceramic decals. For a simple logo on many pens, pad printing can be more economical. CMYK printing gets close to most Pantone shades but cannot match every one exactly; the proof shows what to expect.

Artwork tips

Vector files (AI, PDF, SVG or EPS) are best for logos and text; photos and illustrations should be high resolution at the final print size. Supply Pantone references if colour accuracy matters, and keep important details away from edges and seams. You receive a free digital proof before production, and printing starts after your approval. More in our artwork requirements; for a price, request a quote with your quantity.