Printing touches nearly every part of business and daily life, from business cards and brochures to banners, packaging, and wall graphics. Understanding the main types of printing methods can help you choose the right solution for your project. At Custom Printing, we offer a wide range of services, so here’s a breakdown of the most common methods and when to use them.
Offset Lithography
Offset printing is one of the most widely used commercial printing methods. It relies on metal plates that transfer ink onto a rubber blanket, which then presses the image onto paper or other flat media. Offset is ideal for:
- High-volume runs like magazines, catalogs, and packaging.
- Projects requiring consistent color and fine detail.
- Specialty coatings such as aqueous coating for added protection and visual appeal.
Offset remains the best choice when you need cost efficiency at scale and premium quality.
Digital Printing
Digital printing doesn’t require plates, making it faster and more flexible for short runs or projects with variable data. Inkjet and laser technologies dominate this category. Digital is well-suited for:
- On-demand marketing materials like brochures, postcards, and flyers.
Short-run booklets and manuals. - Direct mail campaigns where personalization is key.
Because setup time is minimal, digital printing allows businesses to update materials frequently without waste.
Small Format Printing
Small format refers to anything below 13” x 19”. At Custom Printing, we use small format printing for:
- Business cards
- Labels and stickers
- Invitations
- Postcards and brochures
This option is perfect for both small business needs and corporate marketing campaigns.
Large Format Printing
Large format printing covers oversized materials used for branding and advertising. This includes:
- Posters and signage
- Trade show displays
- Canvas and vinyl banners
- Vehicle wraps
Depending on the material, we use roll-to-roll or flatbed presses to print directly on rigid substrates like wood, metal, or acrylic.
Wide Format Printing
Wide format overlaps with large format but is typically used for projects between 18 and 100 inches. It’s common for:
- Murals and wall graphics
- Backlit displays (restaurant menus, movie theater signs)
- Retail signage and window clings
At Custom Printing, wide format solutions give businesses flexibility for both indoor and outdoor branding.
Specialty and Finishing Options
Beyond the main methods, finishing can dramatically impact the look and durability of your print. We offer services like:
- Bindery and finishing (folding, stitching, die-cutting)
- Mailing and fulfillment for direct distribution
- Protective coatings and specialty substrates for unique applications
Choosing the Right Method
The right printing method depends on your project goals, budget, and timeline. Offset may be best for large, high-quality runs, while digital is more cost-effective for shorter, customized jobs. Large and wide format shine for promotional and environmental graphics.
At Custom Printing, we bring more than 50 years of expertise, eco-certified practices, and a full suite of commercial printing services to every project. Whether you need brochures, banners, packaging, or direct mail, our team can guide you to the best method for your needs.