Frequently Asked Questions
Q. What is Flexographic printing?
Flexographic printing is a rotary in-line printing method that uses flexible rubber-like (photopolymer) plates and fast drying inks.
A film negative is first made then laid over the photopolymer then is exposed to ultra-violet light. The image areas are raised above the non-image areas on the plate.
The printing plates are affixed to plate cylinders of various repeat lengths, which are inked by a cell structure (anilox roll) which is used to meter the flow of the ink on the roll.
In addition to creating full-colour materials, most flexographic presses accommodate laminating and die cutting processes to protect the product's final shape and size.
At Perflex all of these steps are done in-house. We have the resources to produce the film as well as the plates. Our customers benefit by us having more control over the process and also a savings in time.
Q. What are printing plates?
Plates are made from a flexible rubber-like (photopolymer) material. Using negative film and ultra-violet light an image is placed on the photopolymer where the image area is raised over the non image area. Each colour on your label will require a separate plate.
Q. What is the minimum label order?
There is no minimum order. However, the larger the quantity ordered the lower the price will be. There is the option of running your order on our Digital Press which is ideal for short runs.
Q. Can I print on the inside of my labels?
The 2 methods of printing on the inside of your label are printing on the adhesive and migrating on two different stocks. For more information and to find out what method would work best for your needs please contact us.
Q. What is a "die" charge?
A die is an engraved plate used to cut the label shape. If you need a custom shape there will be an additional charge for this service. You can avoid this charge by using one of our existing dies.
Q. What are "prep" (prepatatory) charges?
These are all of the initial charges which include the plates, tooling and other charges involved for the first printing run.
Q. How can I be sure my labels will stick properly to my surface?
You can request sample material to test on the surfaces to be labeled. Or you can send a few samples of your product to us so that we can recommend both the best adhesive as well as proper face materials.
Q. What is considered typical time frame for a custom printed label?
In general this would be 7 to 10 business days on new orders (from the date you approve the artwork) and 5 to 7 days on reorders. There are factors such as special requirement (dies, special inks etc.) and the quantity size of run. It is best if you discuss shipping requirements with your sales representative.
Q. What is the copy position/rewind direction?
The label industry has assigned numbers for the orientation of label copy. The number tells us which way you require the label to come off the roll for automatic application. If the wrong label position is picked, your labels will not apply in the correct position. Copy direction document.
Q. What are "overs" or "unders"?
The actual quantity of product delivered may vary + or - 10% from the quantity ordered because extras are produced to provide for what may need to be removed in the quality control process. You are billed only for the actual quantity shipped.
Q. How do I get special items like bar codes?
Perflex has the ability to produce a variety of different bar codes. You will need to supply us with an accurate UPC number and type of barcode you require.
Q. How can I pay for my labels?
Perflex accepts cheque, EFT (etransfers), Visa and Mastercard. Your first order will be COD after which time you can request a credit application.
Q. How will my order be shipped?
Perflex regularly ships throughout North America. You can discuss your shipping options with a sales representative.
Q. Who can make my label artwork?
Our design department can work with you to develop your artwork. If you prefer, you can use an external graphic artist or agency. Please ask them to review our File Preparation Guidelines before beginning.
Q. What do you recommend I look for if I use my own graphic designer?
We recommend that you find a designer that has experience in creating designs for flexography. If your designer is not familiar with flexography, ask that they review our File Preparation Guidelines.
We recommend that you allow our graphics department to preflight your design file for possible issues to save time.
Q. How should I have my label printing artwork prepared?
Artwork is usually created in digital form Using Illustrator. Please read our File Preparation Guidelines to learn more before beginning the creative process.
Q. What are CMYK and Pantone colours?
CMYK or Cyan, Magenta, Yellow and Black refers to the colour of the four inks used in most colour printing. It is sometimes referred to as "Process Colour". The combination of these inks can create any colour. This colour model is best used when numerous colours are required such as with a photograph.
Pantone Colour (or the Pantone Matching System PMS) is a standardized set of colours with a numeric value attached to each colour. This colour model is best used when you have a few colours and colour accuracy in important.
Q. What is a proof? Or, do I need to see a proof?
This is a sample of what the printed product will look like prior to printing. It is your opportunity to review the wording, spelling, size and position of elements in the label design. We will send you a PDF file for your review, corrections, and approval.
A signed approval is required prior to the start of the production of your label(s).
We can supply a prototype of your label(s) on the actual label substrate that will be used in production. Or using our UV digital silkscreen printer we can also supply a digital proof that will closely proximate the final label. Both of these services will require an additional fee.
Note: Both a prototype and a digital sample can only be printed in CMYK. (white ink can be used with a prototype)
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