Frequently Asked Questions

Our labels are made using flexographic printing — a modern letterpress process using flexible relief plates that can print on virtually any substrate including plastic, metallic films, cellophane, and paper. Each color requires its own plate, and our precision ink system ensures perfect color consistency across every run.

Flexography (often abbreviated to flexo) is a form of printing process which utilizes a flexible relief plate. It is essentially a modern version of letterpress which can be used for printing on almost any type of substrate, including plastic, metallic films, cellophane, and paper.

Its higher speed and lower cost create efficiency over screen printing and letterpress printing — making it ideal for high-volume label runs.

Tooling refers to the tools and parts required for flexographic printing — including plates (flexible polymer sheets, one per color), dies (cutting tools for label shape), fountain rollers, anilox rollers (unique to flexo for precise ink metering), doctor blades, plate cylinders, and impression cylinders.

For hand-applied labels, winding direction generally doesn't matter. For machine-applied labels, the wind direction is critical to ensure proper application on your equipment.

The ID (inside diameter/core size) is needed based on the printer or applicator equipment. Industry standard is 3" core for hand-applied labels. The OD (outside diameter) ensures the finished roll fits inside your printer or applicator.

Thermal transfer requires a thermal ribbon to print on the label. Direct thermal uses the printer's heat directly on heat-sensitive material. You can tell them apart with a scratch test — a dark mark means direct thermal; no mark means thermal transfer.

Flexographic labels are manufactured in our Hillsborough, NJ facility. For short-run or digital labels, we partner with facilities throughout the country to keep costs competitive.

PMS (Pantone Matching System) is the printing industry standard for spot colors. PMS books ensure color consistency across all runs. Note: PMS is for spot colors — process colors use the CMYK model (Cyan, Magenta, Yellow, Black).