Printing processes

Question 1

Offset Lithography

Answer 1

Works on the principle that oil and water do not mix.

During printing, the plate is kept wet so that the ink is rejected by the wet areas and adheres to the image areas.

Question 2

Flexography

Answer 2

Uses a flexible rubber or plastic roller which is pressed onto the surface of the material.

Often used to print on plastics, foils and acetate films.

Question 3

Screen printing

Answer 3

Uses a woven mesh and ink-blocking stencil to create a desired image.
A stencil is attached to the mesh, this forms open areas of mesh that ink or other printable materials can be pressed through onto a surface.