Inks Printing Guide

Over the last 35 years we have produced high quality artwork for thousands of clients. As technology and printing methods have evolved, so have the inks we use in our print.

Solvent printing was the first method used by Discount Displays. Whilst Solvent inks had excellent performance, they were not very eco-friendly, so we have moved onto more modern, environmentally conscious solutions for all our large format printing. We use a variety of different print technology to suit the media, and artwork that is being printed. This ensures you get the best result regardless of application.

Latex inks are the latest and most eco-friendly printing solution. They are used to produce vibrant, high quality prints. Being water based, Latex inks are non-toxic, odour free and non-flammable. Products printed with latex inks are extremely durable and resistant to wate, heat and scratches.

Latex inks are more conformable than UV inks, making them ideally suited to banners, posters and wall paper. Latex printing produces high quality prints with vibrant colours, without the environmental effects of solvent inks. Where suitable, most of our printing is done with Latex inks.

Uses:

• Pop Up Stands
• Banner Stands
• Self Adhesive Vinyl
• Banner PVC
• Mesh Banner
• Correx
• Foamex
• Dibond
• Cardboard
• Wood

UV Ink printers use special inks that harden when exposed to Ultra Violet lamps built within the printer. UV inks dry rapidly under the UV lamps, so very few chemicals are released during the printing process, making this a more environmentally friendly solution than traditional printers.

A big advantage of this printing method is that UV inks can print onto almost any substrate that can fit through the printer. As well as traditional sign making media, it is possible to print onto wood, ceramic and glass. UV inks is exceptionally tough and durable, and does not need an over-laminate when being used outdoors. The inks also have very good fade resistance, making them ideal for indoor and outdoor use. Our preferred print technology is Latex, but for certain products, like Dibond signage and some outdoor banners, we will use UV print to ensure the best results.

Uses:

• Foamex
• Correx
• Dibond
• Foam Board
• Card
• Glass
• Acrylic

Dye-sublimation is the best option when it comes to fabric printing. The fabric is printed with heat-activated ink and then heat-treated to create a permanent transfer. It is a relatively eco-friendly option as the media can often be recycled and it is a low waste and non-solvent ink solution.

Dye-sublimation printing results in a very durable and vibrant print. Depending on the media, it can be machine washable with no fading. It is suitable for indoor and outdoor use without the risk of fading or peeling. It is a great solution for fabric and flexible media applications.

Uses:

• Fabric Banners
• Fabric Backdrops & Displays
• Flags
• Cafe Barriers
• Bunting
• Table Cloths