Our different printing techniques

 We recently spoke to you about the importance of good packaging in your marketing strategy. We mentioned the need to transfer your visual identity to it. Now there's another question: what are the different printing techniques?

 1. Digital printing

Digital printing, also known as digital printing, is one of the most recent techniques in the printing world.

The principle is simple: you create a design on your computer, which in turn transmits computer data to the printer. There's no need to prepare the machine or create a printing plate (called a cliché in printer's jargon).

In our case, the printer is equipped with UV lamps that immediately fix the design when very small drops of ink are sprayed onto the box. The ink forms a thin layer on the cardboard and does not penetrate the material. 

This technique generally uses CMYK colors (cyan, magenta, yellow, black). This is four-color printing. The colors are mixed directly on the object to be printed to obtain the desired tones. At Centurybox, our machine is CMYK LcL White, which means it is equipped with 3 additional colors to ensure better definition of your images, photos and logos.

The machine's rapid set-up and continuous process flow make it the method of choice for printing small quantities. In fact, there's no need to manufacture plates in advance, which reduces start-up costs.

At Centuryprint.eu, we only use this printing technique on white boxes. If you'd like to personalize a colored box using digital printing, please fill in the following form to send us a custom printing request.


Digital printing on kraft paper box

 2. Screen printing

Are you familiar with the stencil technique? With screen printing, it's almost the same! We use a cliché consisting of a canvas cut to the image of your design, which we place in a wooden frame. We then apply the ink to your packaging with a squeegee. 

This screen printing method uses pantone colors, meaning you can choose the exact color of your brand and keep your visual identity intact. Tinting is more precise than with four-color process printing.

When you choose screen printing to personalize your packaging, be aware that you can only select two different colors, and these must be at least 1cm apart. This means that images or photos cannot be printed on your packaging using this printing technique.

If you require screen printing with more than two colors, please complete this form so that we can help you create your customized packaging.

Highcare noblesse grass paper bag

3. Hot foil printing

Hot foil printing on wonderbox, magnetic closure cardboard box

Process of hot foil printing

Hot foil printing, also known as hot stamping or foil stamping, is a printing technique that involves the application of pigment or metallic foil to a surface. This technique is commonly used on various materials, including paper, plastic, and leather, to create a decorative finish. Hot foil printing is often used for packaging, business cards, stationery, book bindings, and a variety of promotional materials.

Here's a step-by-step breakdown of how the hot foil printing process generally works:

  1. Design Preparation: The process begins with the creation of a die or stamp. This die is a metal plate engraved with the design or text to be printed. It is typically made of brass, copper, or hardened steel.

  2. Foil Selection: The next step is to choose the foil. Foil is available in a wide range of colors, finishes, and optical effects, including metallic (gold, silver, etc.), pigmented (various colors), holographic, and special effect foils.

  3. Application: The die is mounted onto the hot foil machine and heated. The foil is then placed between the die and the material to be printed on. When the heated die presses the foil onto the material, the heat activates the adhesive layer on the foil, causing it to stick to the material in the shape of the design.

  4. Pressure and Heat: The combination of heat and pressure applied during this process causes the foil to bond to the surface. The exact temperature and pressure required can vary based on the type of material and foil being used.

  5. Removal of Excess Foil: After the foil has been applied, the sheet is pulled away, leaving the design on the material. The excess foil is discarded.

The result is a shiny, eye-catching design that adds a touch of luxury and sophistication to the printed material. Hot foil printing is a versatile method that can be used on a variety of surfaces and for a wide range of applications, making it a popular choice for high-end printing jobs.


Start with the customer – find out what they want and give it to them.

As a business, one of the most critical aspects of your brand's visual identity is the packaging of your products. Customizing packaging not only helps differentiate your product in a competitive marketplace, but it also enhances the overall customer experience. By utilizing different printing methods such as hot foil printing, screen printing, digital printing, and flexo printing, businesses can create unique, high-quality packaging that aligns with their brand identity.

Hot Foil Printing is a technique that adds a premium feel to your packaging. This process involves the application of metallic foil onto the surface of the packaging material using heat and pressure. Hot foil printing is ideal for adding luxurious, shiny designs to your packaging, perfect for creating a high-end impression​1​.

Screen Printing is a technique where ink is pushed through a mesh stencil to create a design. This method is perfect for packaging requiring bold and vibrant colors. Screen printing is highly durable and can withstand harsh conditions, making it ideal for packaging that needs to endure transport and handling.

Digital Printing is a modern printing technique that works similar to a home printer, allowing for high-quality photographic prints. This method is perfect for complex designs with a lot of detail or a wide range of colors. It's also highly flexible, allowing for easy customization or changes in the design without the need for new physical templates.

Flexo Printing, or flexography, is a high-speed printing process that can print on a variety of different materials, including plastic, metallic films, cellophane, and paper. It is often used for large orders of custom printed packaging because it can produce high-quality results quickly and at high volumes.

Why is customized packaging so important for your company? Customized packaging serves as a powerful marketing tool, helping to build brand recognition and loyalty. When your packaging matches your company's brand identity, it creates a consistent and cohesive brand experience for your customers. It's not just about containing a product, but also about reflecting the company's values and quality commitment. It gives you the chance to make a strong first impression and stand out on the shelf.

By investing in customized packaging with these different printing techniques, you can ensure that your packaging is not only functional but also effectively communicates your brand's identity. Whether you are looking to add a touch of luxury with hot foil printing, vibrant colors with screen printing, intricate designs with digital printing, or high-volume production with flexo printing, there's a solution to meet your branding needs.

Use the right printing techniques for your customized packaging, and let your product shine in the marketplace.