What is Digital Print?
16th Aug 2022
Printing has been around for hundreds of years, and, over time, the methods and processes of carrying out printing activities have vastly improved. Digital print is one example of new-age print technology.
Now, perhaps you’ve heard about this form of printing but aren’t quite sure what it entails or whether you should use it. Here, we explain everything you need to know about digital print.
What is Digital Print & How Does it Work?
Digital printing refers to a method of printing where digital-based imagery is printed directly onto a variety of media, such as paper, canvas, fabric and other substrates. This digital image could be anything from a PDF on your computer to downloaded pictures from the internet.
If you compare digital print to traditional methods such as offset printing, you’ll see that the difference comes in with the use of plates. With offset printing, one needs to create plates to print the image. However, with digital printing, a metal plate simply transfers the image directly onto the substrate.
So, when you’re working on your computer, and decide to print an image or document, what happens is that the computer sends the file (and your preferred printing options) to the chosen printer. The information is then ‘translated’ into a language that the printer can understand, which the printer will then take and process in order to print your item.
Types of Digital Print
There are not necessarily different types of digital print; however, it can be used in different ways.
- Inkjet and laser – These printers are found everywhere, such as in private homes, offices and schools.
- Solid ink – This type of digital printing makes use of a waxy resin-polymer, which results in eye-catching imagery that lasts for an extended period of time. It’s generally used in large-scale printing operations.
- Digital press – This is most often used for booklets, brochures, business cards, leaflets and labels where items need to be printed in high volumes.
- Dye sublimation – Here, digital printing is used with heat transfer technology in order to print images onto fabrics. This can be used in the production of clothing, accessories and other forms of merchandise.
Benefits of Digital Print
This modern form of printing it is constantly evolving due to technological advancements, making it a popular method. Its process allows for lower costs, a quick turnaround and high-quality prints. Additionally, digital print allows for quick and easy customisation, as no printing plates are involved which makes digital printing a flexible option.
Drawbacks of Digital Print
Digital printing presents numerous benefits; however, it doesn’t come without drawbacks. One of the most significant of these is the fact that digital print has a higher cost per page in comparison to more traditional printing methods. Despite this, the cost is often offset due to the fact that printing plates aren’t required to complete the process.
Another issue that some find with digital printing is that, during commercial digital print processes, there can be a loss of the finer details in images. However, this is not always the case, and with technological developments, this is quickly improving.
Ready to Give Digital Printing a Try?
Digital printing offers numerous benefits, allowing you to print images and files onto a range of substrates. If you’d like to learn more about this printing solution, feel free to get in touch with our team, and we’ll answer any questions you may have.