Litho printing, also known as offset printing, is a printing method that uses plates, ink, and rollers to transfer images onto paper. It's a cost-effective and reliable way to print in large quantities.
How it works:
1. Images are etched into aluminum plates as microscopic dots
2. The plates are covered in ink
3. The inked plates transfer the image to a rubber cylinder, called a blanket
4. The blanket transfers the image onto paper as it passes by
Uses:
• Litho printing is often used for printing books, catalogues, and posters
• It's also a good choice for printing with metallic inks and UV varnishes
Advantages:
• Litho printing can produce high-quality results
• It's fast for producing large quantities of the same item
Drawbacks:
• Litho printing takes longer to set up than digital printing
• It requires skill to mix inks and place them in the correct order