What is full color process and spot color printing?
Understanding printing methods and choosing the right imprint for your logo can be challenging. This guide breaks down the most common techniques so you can make the best decision for your brand.
Imprint Methods Explained
Screen Printing (aka Spot Color Printing)
This process is used when your logo has one or more solid colors — full tone colors that are cleanly separated from each other with no halftones, color blends, or shades. A screen is created for each color, and one color at a time is printed on the product. The printing machine must be set up for each individual color with its own screen and ink. Below is an example of a logo suited for screen printing — this is a 4-color logo.

Example: 4-color spot color logo with registration marks
Full Color Digital Printing
If your logo contains halftones or blended colors, full color digital printing is the right choice. The process is similar to what you'd see from a standard color printer at home or the office. The one limitation to be aware of: most full color digital promotional product printers on the market today can only print up to ¼" in height. This method is best suited for logos that are more horizontal than vertical. Below is an example of a full color digital imprint logo.

Example: Full color digital imprint logo with gradients and blended tones
Need a larger imprint? Consider sending us a spot color version of your art. If you don't have one and don't mind a slight alteration to your logo, we can convert it for you at no charge. Below is an example of a full color to spot color conversion.

Example: Full color CMYK image converted to 2-color spot process
Not sure which method is right for your logo?No matter the situation — if it can be done, SaveYourInk.com can make it happen.
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