8 Common Offset Printing Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

Offset printing is one of the most famous printing techniques used in custom-printed packaging. Did you know that common mistakes in offset printing lead to production delays and costly reprints? So, you must have an idea of what these mistakes are and how to avoid them.

It’s not difficult to avoid offset printing mistakes. By adhering to the latest market standards, paying attention to detail, and working closely with packaging service providers, you can prevent costly mistakes easily within a minimum time.

Here are the 8 common offset printing mistakes & how to avoid them:

1. Color Misalignment:

It is one of the most common offset printing mistakes which usually happens when there is improper registration during printing. This means that different colors used in the printing process are not perfectly aligned.

You can easily fix this mistake by using software that ensures proper registration of different color palettes in one packaging design. Also, the use of latest technology and skilled packaging professionals can greatly reduce misalignment chances.

2. Insufficient Margins:

Another important offset printing mistake comes when your custom-printed box does not come up with sufficient margins. As a result, the overall printing process badly impacts the packaging design.

Margins on packaging boxes should be aligned appropriately so that content is not being cut off during the trimming process. Before starting the offset printing job, ensure that margins are in appropriate sizes so that you don’t face insufficient margin issues later.

3. Ink Smudging:

It happens when inks are not properly dried before handling the prints. As a result, ink may transfer onto other surfaces when pressure is being applied especially during packing and transportation.

To prevent ink smudging issues, ensure that you give your print enough dry time. Also, you can use a drying agent so your ink gets dry quickly or implement specialized drying techniques depending on the type of ink being used.

4. Incorrect Color Mode:

Some businesses commit a big offset printing mistake by using RGB color mode on packaging printed materials. Only CMYK can be used during offset printing for better results. The reason is that CMYK color mode allows printers to reproduce more precise details.

Other than CMYK, RGB color mode is not a suitable option for offset printing so avoid this mistake beforehand to come up with precise results.

5. Uneven Ink Coverage:

Uneven ink coverage leads to patchy or faded areas on printed materials. This happens when there are different unmatched variations in ink application across the print job’s different parts.

As a packaging supplier, you can commit this mistake by balancing their equipment so there are no variations in ink applications. You can do it by adjusting the roller pressures, maintaining consistent temperatures, and adequate supply or usage of fresh ink.

6. Font Issues:

Font issues usually happen when you don’t use the appropriate fonts for offset printing. As a result, the ink used on fonts faded and make your packaging dull.

To overcome this issue, you have to use embedded fonts correctly that best suit your needs. Before going for any font type or size, don’t forget to consider these factors:

• Readability
• Style
• Audience

7. Neglecting Bleed Settings:

Ignoring bleed settings may lead to unsightly white edges that negatively impact the final printed product. Bleed settings refer to extending elements beyond the trim edge. Also, it helps you ensure there are no unwanted gaps between artwork designs or pages.

So, it is advised to use the right bleed settings before starting the offset printing project. You can set bleed settings in design software easily.

8. Choosing the Wrong Paper Stock:

Ignoring paper quality before starting offset printing is yet another common mistake. Paper quality is the essential aspect that can significantly impact your printed materials’ final appearance. Also, on high-quality material, you can perform offset printing tasks easily.

To overcome this mistake, you have to choose the right paper stock. You can go for an uncoated, gloss-coated, and matte-coated paper stock for precise results.

Conclusion!

Getting a clear idea of common offset printing mistakes is crucial for a successful, frustration-free printing experience.  By understanding these potential mistakes and following the tips outlined above, you can ensure vibrant colors, crisp details, and a professional final process. 

To get quality offset printing on your brand’s custom-printed packaging, you can contact us at Kolaxo Packaging USA where precision meets quality. Also, we offer unlimited customization options to choose from! Get a quote today!