What Is Digital Printing?

Printing has evolved far beyond traditional offset printing methods, with digital printing being one of the major breakthroughs in the packaging and label industry. Digital printing is the process of reproducing digital-based images or documents directly onto different substrates using a specialized digital printer.

Unlike traditional printing techniques that rely on plates or screens, digital printing transfers digital files, such as PDFs or desktop publishing files, straight to the digital press. This allows for the application of images and media to any material type.

Types of Digital Printing

There are various types of digital printing methods available, each designed to cater to specific applications. Some common types include:

Digital Press

Digital press printing is a digitized version of a traditional offset press. It is commonly used in large-volume orders like business cards, brochures, booklets, labels, and promotional materials. While it may be pricier than other printing options, it provides fast turnaround times, accurate and high-quality color rendering, and variable data printing.

Inkjet

Inkjet printing uses tiny ink nozzles to create images or text on a printing surface. Its high-resolution prints (up to 1440 x 1440 dpi), seamless color gradients, and cost-effectiveness make it widely used for home and office printing of documents, photographs, and graphics. Inkjet printers are versatile and can print on diverse substrates, including paper and plastic.

Laser

Laser printing utilizes a laser beam to produce crisp text and images on the printing medium. This process involves a combination of electrostatically charged toner and a heated fuser to transfer the toner onto the paper. Laser printers are known for their fast printing speeds, sharp text output, and reliability, making them widely used in offices and business settings.

Solid Ink

Solid ink printing uses waxy, resin-polymer ink instead of traditional liquid ink or toner cartridges. The ink sticks are melted and applied to the printing surface, resulting in vibrant and consistent prints. Solid ink printers offer exceptional color accuracy, an eco-friendly nature, and the capability to print on various materials. They are often used for large-scale printing operations, particularly by graphic designers.

Dye Sublimation

Dye sublimation printing employs thermal heat to transfer dye onto materials like polyester fabric, nylon, or certain plastics. This printing method is widely used for personalized products, such as custom apparel, large outdoor banners, and promotional items, providing vivid and long-lasting prints with excellent color reproduction.

Benefits of Digital Printing

Compared to conventional offset printing, digital printing services offer numerous advantages, such as:

Quicker Printing Process

Digital printing offers a faster printing process while maintaining the same level of quality compared to traditional methods. With no need for plates or prepress procedures, digital files can be sent directly to the printer, reducing setup time and offering quick turnaround rates. This makes digital printing an ideal choice for projects with tight deadlines or last-minute changes.

Digital Images are Easier to Edit

Digital files can be easily edited and modified before printing, enabling quick changes and adjustments. Some images can also be programmed to update automatically based on a set of data inputs into the image or software. With digital printing, it is easier to customize each print to cater to individual customer needs.

Cost-Effective Black-and-White Printing

While digital printing provides high-quality color printing, it also offers significant cost savings when it comes to black-and-white printing. Unlike traditional printing methods that require separate plates for each color, digital printing can produce high-quality black-and-white prints at a fraction of the cost.

Order Volume Can Change from a Single Item

Digital printers can print in small quantities, or even one item at a time. This is particularly advantageous for print-on-demand services, such as personalized products or promotional materials that require individual customization.

Exceptional Color Accuracy

With precise color control and calibration, digital printers can reproduce vibrant and accurate colors consistently. This ensures that the final prints match the intended design with full color and gradation print, making digital printing ideal for projects that require color precision.

Easy Customization with Design

Digital printing offers endless possibilities for customization with no set-in-stone printing plates. This enables easy incorporation of variable data, such as personalized names or addresses, into prints. Additionally, digital printing allows for intricate designs, gradients, and special effects that can be achieved with ease.

Environment-Friendly Printing

Digital printing is a more environmentally friendly printing option compared to traditional methods. It eliminates the need for chemical-based processes, such as plate-making or film development, reducing harmful waste and carbon footprint. This also allows for on-demand printing to minimize excess inventory and paper wastage.

Summing It Up

Unlike traditional printing, digital offers two key advantages: speed and affordability. Faster turnaround times meet tight deadlines, while on-demand printing reduces waste and storage needs. This efficiency extends to cost savings, especially for smaller print runs. Digital printing also offers superior print quality and the ability to personalize packaging, labels, and marketing materials for a more targeted impact. Plus, digital printing opens doors to innovative presentations by allowing for printing on a wider range of materials.

Since 1977, VJ7 Printing has been the leading provider of digital printing services in the Philippines. As your partner in print, we are backed by a skilled creative team and world-class technology to offer a wide range of printing solutions that surpass client standards and printing needs. To request a quotation, call +632 8355 5077 or email info@vj7printing.com.

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Enrico Olivares Santos

The company was founded in 1997 by Enrico Olivares Santos who named the company after the members of his family.

VJ7 Printing and Packaging Inc. started as a humble backyard operation with only one artist and a handful of offset press operators. Its first iteration catered only to the Our Lady of Fatima University and the Fatima University Medical Center. It grew into a full-fledged registered corporation in 2016.

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