Offset & Lithography
Offset, also known as lithography, is the most widely recognized form of commercial printing used today, and dates back to the late 1700’s. Offset is used to reproduce photo-quality images or illustrations, standard text, or designs that incorporate a host of ink colors.
Offset employs a flat plate containing the image, which is affixed to the cylinder of a printing press. When ink is applied, the image transfers from the plate, to the rubber blanket, and then to the paper.
Offset has made many technological and environmentally-friendly advances over the years, including the use of vegetable-based inks, the ability to print on papers with high recycled content, and the reduction of harsh chemicals and post-manufacturing waste.
What to know about Offset & Lithography
- Choose paper carefully, offset inks are influenced by the brightness and color of the paper. Be prepared for changes in color depending on the paper’s surface finish and color.
- Pantone Matching System (PMS) printing uses a premixed ink, so aside from the way it reacts to the paper, you know what to expect.
- CMYK, or four color printing , uses a combination of cyan, magenta, yellow and black inks to create the printed image. The end product can vary depending on the press, stock and exact mix. Four-color projects need paper-specific prepress proofs, to simulate how inks will respond on press.
- Metallic inks tend to absorb into uncoated paper when offset. If you’re going for a high-metallic effect, choose a coated sheet or go with engraving or foil stamping.
- Choose the right tool for your job. Our presses handle paper sizes ranging from 3” x 5” to 14” x 20” and print 1 to 5 colors + aqueous coating, up to 24pt thick stock.
- Allow more time for post-press drying if your project requires large areas of ink.
QUESTIONS?
Think of us like that friendly production manager you never had.
“Precise Continental is a First Class Business with premium service. Accolades to Precise, keeping this level of satisfaction makes all the difference and motivates clients to look forward to working with them”
“Doing great. Thank you for 20+ years of being our stationery supplier.”
“I have always been very happy with your products. You are very prompt in turning over each job and the quality is always of a high standard.”
“I am very happy with the service we get and everything is done so quickly, I’m just happy with the way it is. DON’T CHANGE A THING!!”
“For over 35 years Precise has been the constant provider of exceptional service and high quality printing. Whatever you are doing to maintain such a high level of performance, keep it coming.”
“You guys are amazing! I can count on you to produce beautiful pieces, no matter how insane our turnaround time might be. Thank you so much!”
“I don’t know what we would do without you. It is wonderful for us to have a trusted professional with whom to work. Thanks so much.”
“I have been a graphic designer for a long time and there are very few printers that keep the level of quality that I have come to expect. Thank you.”
