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Screen Print

This is the conventional method for printing on pressed CDs (music CDs you buy are normally printed this way).

What is it?

Screen printing uses a fine nylon mesh stretched tightly over a frame (the Screen). Images are created by blocking parts of the screen using photographic techniques (the films), and ink is then forced through the open areas of the screen, using a squeegee, onto the disc face. Each colour printed requires its own film and screen, so a four colour process job will need at least four films and four screens (one each for Cyan, Magenta, Yellow, Black, and possibly a white base).

An Interesting Application?

With recordable discs, if they need to have similar looking labels across different titles (e.g. to retain a corporate identity; see our Labelling Case Study), costs can be reduced by screen printing the generic images and text in bulk, and then thermal over-printing in smaller batches the content specific information, such as the disc title and version number.

Benefits?

> Replicated & Duplicated discs
Screen printing is available on recordable as well as pressed discs.
> Tough sheen finish
Gives a scratch resistant, sheen finish - but can be gloss or matt with the application of a special varnish.
> Use the mirror surface
The shiny surface of the disc can be used as part of the disc face design.
> Thermal overprint
With recordable discs, it's possible to thermal overprint onto the already screen printed surface, provided a special 'thermal coating' has been layed down first. See our Case Study.
> Pantone Colours
Individual 'spot' colours can be printed if you need an exact colour matched.
> Different disc types
As well as standard 12cm discs, we are also able to screen print onto 8cm discs, CD Business Cards, Coloured Discs and Retro CDs.
> Standard method on pressed CDs
All our replicated CDs are screen printed unless offset printing is chosen or recommended instead.
> Cost on high volumes
Best for high volumes as setup costs become more significant with lower numbers.
> Print only?
Discs can be supplied blank, but printed. Maybe you have your own duplicator or you burn 'one-offs' for distribution.
High-speed digital Back to CD & DVD Printing Offset Print
Screen Printing: Squeegee ready for the next disc
Screen Printing: Squeegee ready for the next disc



Need a quote, please call 0845 644 1869



For more information about our CD & DVD Screen Print service, or to request samples, please click here or call us on 0845 644 1869

QuickLinks:
> Low Volume Disc Duplication [CD | DVD]
> High Volume Disc Replication [CD]
> Artwork Specifications [Recordable discs | Pressed discs]
> Frequently Asked Questions [Artwork]