Registered vs Random Repeat Custom-Printed Rollstock Film
Today, we will discuss the differences between registered and random repeat custom-printed films for rollstock packaging. Our customers often seek further clarification on these terms and how they compare. Let’s explore the characteristics of these two types of custom-printed thermoforming packaging films.
1) What is registered custom-printed rollstock film?
2) What is random repeat custom-printed rollstock film?
3) How to set up the artwork file for random repeat custom-printed non-forming film
4) How to set up the artwork file for registered custom-printed non-forming film
What is registered custom-printed rollstock film?
Registered print is a straightforward printing method where the artwork repeats at the same distance as the cutting tool. For instance, if the cutting occurs every 200mm, the artwork will repeat in 200mm increments on the rollstock unit. This type of printing is ideal for customers with larger volume orders requiring more information on each package. Registered print has a visually appealing quality and is similar to labeling. Customers transitioning from labels to registered print find the process seamless. However, this type of print demands meticulous attention to detail and precise operation of the rollstock thermoforming equipment. It requires an operator with a keen sense of quality.
REGISTERED PRINT PROS:
MORE AESTHETICALLY PLEASING
ABLE TO FIT MORE INFORMATION ON A SINGLE PACKAGE
SEAMLESS TRANSITION FOR EX-LABEL CUSTOMERS
REGISTERED PRINT CONS:
REQUIRES HIGHER ATTENTION TO DETAIL
ONLY CAN USE ONE PRINT FOR ONE LOT OF PRODUCT
What is random repeat custom-printed rollstock film?
Random repeated custom-printed rollstock film is when you set up artwork to repeat in a patterned sense. The artwork does not seem random, but the cutting time is random. For example, your artwork could repeat at 200mm, but your unit could be cutting your film every 120mm. Your final package will seem as if the print is random, but ultimately it is your cutting that is random relatively speaking. See the reference image where the film behind the sealed product has a repeating leaf.
RANDOM REPEAT PRINT PROS:
REQUIRES LESS ATTENTION TO DETAIL WHEN RUNNING ROLLSTOCK
CAN USE SINGLE PRINT FOR MULTIPLE LOTS OF PRODUCT
RANDOM REPEAT PRINT CONS:
LESS AESTHETICALLY PLEASING
How to set up the artwork file for random repeat custom-printed non-forming film
Random repeat print is quite simple to set up. Typically you need to set up per the width of your roll multiplied by how many lanes are being printed. As far as the advance, you will need the plate size from the printer. All of this information is readily available upon request.
How to set up the artwork file for registered custom-printed non-forming film
The registered print will need to be set up off of the die file provided by the manufacturer of your thermoforming vacuum packaging machine. You need pocket length, pocket width, pack width, top film (non-forming) width, and advance length (repeat length). Usually, the die file will provide all of this information making it easier to forward off to JVR Industries. We require our customers to only send a 1-up file and we can step out the artwork and apply the required distortions for proper printing.
What file types does JVR Industries use?
JVR Industries can use pre-existing files such as .ai, .pdf, .psd, and .jpeg. The file type we require for your specific job depends on what you require of us. If you are looking to just print the file you have, then we need a workable file such as an adobe illustrator file or illustrator pdf file. In the event that your text needs to be edited, we will need the text to be live in the file.
Looking for a brand-new design? No problem! You can leave that up to our in-house graphic designer/prepress technician to tend to. Lastly, if you are considering a recreate, we need any file type. Flattened files like .jpeg might work but depends on the specific scenario. Please feel free to reach out to andrew@jvrinc.com for any custom printed rollstock thermoforming vacuum packaging film requests.
Conclusion
Selecting the type of printing is all dependent on your personal preferences and needs!
Typically, random repeat printed bags only use one color of ink like black. It is not uncommon for customers to use this for things like bio-hazard, recycling, or suffocation warning symbols. Often times this type of printing is so our customers can meet the standards or requirements in their industry.
If you have any further questions, please feel free to call our offices in Lancaster, NY.
Read more about our custom printed films below!
