While the most commonly types of imprinting is pad printing and silk screening, there are several printing processes used in the industry:  You don't have to concern yourself with the process.  Basically, all you need to know is to get great quality work at reasonable price.  We select the most appropriate process for your imprinting needs depending on the product.  Pricing details is provided for each of our products.  The following information is for your general knowledge only.

Pad Printing:  A recessed area is made on a plate and is then covered by ink.  Afterwards, the plate will be wiped, while the active ink remains in the recessed area.  A silicone pad will pressure on the plate, absorb the ink from the recess area, and apply onto the product.

Silk Screening:  Also known as Screen Printing.  Usually used for larger prints.  Screen is used for the printing process, where it is treated with light-sensitive substance.  Film is then placed with the screen and exposed to light.  Light will harden the substance which is not covered by the film image.  This creates a soft area on the screen to push the ink through.  A screen is stretched on a frame, and ink is squeezed through it to the surface.

Engraving: The image is "cut" or engraved into the product.  It can be done manually or nowadays computerized and laser engraved.

Embossing: Using special dies, the image is "raised" on the surface of the product.

Debossing: In contrast to embossing, the image is pressed into the product, and appears at a lower surface within the product.

Etching: Uses acid and protection method.  The image is first covered with an acid-proof coating.  Applying acid on the surface, the rest of the area is then eaten and the image remains etched on the surface.

Hot Stamping: Basically a die is pressed on the surface using heat and pressure to create the image on the product.

Offset Lithography: Generally used to print on paper.  Image is first placed on a rubber blanket and then the rubber is pressed on the surface to be printed.

Decal Transfer: Generally used on glass, porcelain, and china.  The decal is first printed on an offset, it is then placed in water and then on the product.  Air and water will be squeezed out, and the process merges the decal with the product.

Embroidery: Used on fabrics, the design is stitched to the fabric - usually with automated, high speed sewing machines.