| What is origination? | | | | Laser engraving is now widely regarded as the most |
| Origination is the set up of the equipment for the | | | | accurate and economical way of reproducing fine |
| job; to produce the screen in the screen printing | | | | design work, although machine engraving may still be |
| process or to produce the disk for embroidery, it is | | | | used to excellent effect. |
| an industry standard charge. | | | | Blocking: Used to brand leather goods in particular. A |
| How should I provide artwork? | | | | metal block (die) is pressure stamped onto the |
| Suppliers can accept artwork in a majority of | | | | product, usually with a gold or silver foil, to leave a |
| formats including EPS, PDF, Coral, Quark and | | | | lasting impression of your design. Alternatively, the |
| Illustrator. However, if you do not have artwork, | | | | process can be performed without foil, just leaving |
| very often they will be able to advise and produce | | | | your design in plain relief. This is known as Blind |
| print ready artwork to your requirements, at minimal | | | | Embossing. |
| cost. | | | | Embroidery: This is a great way to achieve quality |
| How accurately will my colours be reproduced? | | | | personalisation on most clothing and headwear. The |
| There will always be endeavour to match the colours | | | | modern machinery offering speed and multiple colour |
| as accurately as possible. However print colours and | | | | possibilities, more customers are selecting this |
| shades will vary depending on the material, surface | | | | method of personalisation to great effect. A typical |
| and texture being utilised. | | | | design is based on a stitch count of around 5 to |
| What types of branding are available?Screen printing: | | | | 10,000 stitches. |
| Used on pens, flat plastic items and PU, as well as | | | | Die Stamping: Usually used on metal products like |
| clothing, particularly T-shirts. Ink is applied to the | | | | stainless steel or similar products. Like blocking, metal |
| product by pushing it through a stencil (screen) | | | | die is pressure stamped onto your product leaving an |
| containing your design. | | | | impression of your design. It can be left plain or filled |
| Tampo (or Pad) Printing: An ink applying method, but | | | | with colour. |
| used to especially good effect on odd or curved | | | | So, as ever, our advice at Code Promotional |
| shapes. An increasing popular method due to the | | | | Merchandise is to never assume the level of |
| flexibility and number of products it can mark. Ink is | | | | knowledge of your customer and always ensure that |
| transferred onto product by way of a rubber pad. | | | | there adequate explanation of the process when you |
| Engraving: Used most commonly on crystal, glass and | | | | quote. That way, there will be no hidden surprises |
| metal products to achieve a quality, lasting finish. | | | | for you or your customer! |