Pad Printing

Pad printing is a printing process that can transfer a 2-D image onto a 3-D object

Pad printing is a printing process that can transfer a 2-D image onto a 3-D object. This is accomplished using an indirect offset (gravure) printing process that involves an image being transferred from the cliché via a silicone pad onto a substrate. Pad printing is used for printing on otherwise difficult to print on products in many industries including medical, automotive, promotional, apparel, and electronic objects, as well as appliances, sports equipment and toys. It can also be used to deposit functional materials such as conductive inks, adhesives, dyes and lubricants.

 

Physical changes within the ink film both on the cliché and on the pad allow it to leave the etched image area in favor of adhering to the pad, and to subsequently release from the pad in favour of adhering to the substrate. The unique properties of the silicone pad enable it to pick the image up from a flat plane and transfer it to a variety of surfaces, such as flat, cylindrical, spherical, compound angles, textures, concave, or convex surfaces.

  • Great all-round solution that’s fast and economical
  • Can be applied on virtually any shape
  • Suitable for most surface textures
  • Favoured for small plastic items like pens, keyholders and torches • Allows single and multi-colour branding ( up to 4 colours )

 

Preparing of Artwork for Pad Printing

Preparing the artwork in order for it to be used for pad printing:

  • Vector format only
  • Artwork is separated by solid colours, maximum 4 colours available

Advantages of Pad Printing

  • Can brand uneven / rounded surfaces
  • Quick turn-around time

Limitations of Pad Printing

  • 4 Colours maximum, no shading (solid colours only)
  • Small words & fine detail will be shown as solid
  • Only certain items may be branded this way (pens, bottles)

Additional branding services we offer to make your brand stand out