APC Packaging Blog

Your Package's Decoration

Written by APC Packaging | Sep 3, 2019 8:42:40 PM

 

One of the most important factors in successfully achieving your desired look is in the way your package is decorated.

There are so many different options when it comes to decorating and finishing, but here are a few of the most common ones:

In-Mold Color

In-mold color is a very simple way of saying the material and the conversion method used are combined. Therefore, when the base material is manufactured into the desired product, it comes out the selected color.

Inner/Outer Spray

Spray finish can be done either on the outside of the container or on the inside. These effects can include, but are not limited to: Clear coat, soft touch, gradient, custom colors, texturization, etc. You imagine it, and our packaging experts will work with you to find a solution.

Vacuum Metalizing

This technique replicates the look of clean chrome on containers. The process involves heating an aluminum ingot in a vacuum chamber until it starts to evaporate. The vaporized metal condenses on and bonds to the container, all while being rotated to help ensure uniform application. After the metalizing process is completed, a protective topcoat is applied to the container. This topcoat can be tinted to give a variety of looks, ranging from pink to black chrome.

Heat Transfer Labels (HTL)

This decorating technique is another way of applying silk screen. The ink is transferred to the part through pressure and a heated silicone roller or die. For multiple colors or labels with half-tones, heat transfer labels can be used to provide tight registration tolerances.

Water Transfer

Hydro-graphics, also known as immersion printing, water transfer printing, water transfer imaging, hydro dipping or cubic printing, is a method of applying printed designs to three-dimensional surfaces that might not be achievable through other decoration options. The hydrographic process can be used on metal, plastic, glass, hard woods, and various other materials.

UV Coating

In the cosmetics, beauty, and personal care business, packaging is also about fashion. UV coating plays a significant role in making your package standout on the retail shelves. Whether it is a frosty texture or a shiny surface, coating gives your package a certain attractive look.  UV coating can also be used as a protective layer if your product is likely to have volatile contents, or exposure to harmful environments.

Hot/Foil Stamping

Hot stamping is a technique in which colored foil is applied to the surface through a combination of heat and pressure. Hot stamping produces a shiny and luxurious appearance on cosmetic tubes, bottles, jars, and other closures. Colored foils are often gold and silver, but brushed aluminum, textured foil, & opaque colors are also available and ideal for a signature design.

Silk Screen Printing

Silk screening is the process in which ink is pressed through a photographically treated screen onto the surface of your container. One color is applied at a time, with one screen for each color. The number of colors required, (among other variables), determines how many passes are needed for silk screen printing.

Offset Printing

Offset printing uses printing plates to transfer ink onto the containers. This technique is more precise than silkscreen printing and is effective for multi colors (up to 8 colors) and halftone artwork. This process is available for tubes only. You will not feel the texture of printed graphics but there is one over-lapping color line on the tube.

If you have any questions about the best method for your product, feel free to reach out to one of our packaging experts.