Imprint Methods

Offset Printing:
Printing process in which a positive image is transferred to a rubber blanket in reverse, which in turn applies it to the surface to be printed, right reading.

Decal:
Imprinting method in which the decal is printed on an offset or letterset press, submerged in water and placed on the product. Excess water and air are squeezed off and the product is kiln-fired, a process that fuses the decal with the glaze.

Sublimation:
Dye transfer process where the image consists of a colored dye permanently embedded into the material surface of pores. Used to imprint messages, graphics and photographs on a variety of items, primarily mouse pads, mugs, T-shirts, caps and trophy medals.

Laser Engraving:
Imprinting method by which art or lettering is cut into a material by a laser beam that vaporizes the portion exposed through openings in a template.

4-Color Process:
Printing process that creates color productions by overprinting screens that individually print reds, yellows, blues and blacks of variable specified intensities. CMYK.

Die-Striking:
Method of producing emblems and other flat specialties. A blank, cut from a metal sheet, is struck with a hammer that holds the die.

Die-Casting:
Process where molten metal is injected into the cavity of a carved die.

Foil Stamping:
Process in which a metal plate or die is heated and then pressed against foil into a surface, causing the pigments of the foil to transfer to the surface. Also called hot-stamping.

Etching:
Imprinting method in which the product to be imaged is coated with a protective coating that resists acid. The image is then exposed, leaving bare metal and protected metal. The acid attacks only the exposed metal, leaving the image etched onto the surface.

Hot-Stamped:
Dry imprinting process in which a design or type is set on a relief die that is subsequently impressed by heat and pressure onto the printing surface.

Embossing:
Rising of an image on a product, accomplished by pressing the material between concave and convex dies.

Debossing:
Depression of an image into a material such as paper, leather or suede, so the image sits below the product surface.

Embroidery:
Design stitched onto fabric through the use of high-speed, computer-controlled sewing machines.

Screen-Printing:
Imprinting method in which the image is transferred to the printed surface by ink squeezed through a stenciled screen stretched over a frame. Screens are treated with a light-sensitive emulsion, and then film positives are put in contact with the screens and exposed to light. The light hardens the emulsion not covered by the film, leaving a soft area on the screen for the squeegee to force ink through. Also called silk-screening.