Flexographic Printing – This is the most basic and cost effective method of printing on paper tubes and edge protectors. It utilizes water-based inks that are transferred directly onto the paper, using photopolymer printing plates (similar to rubber stamps). The quality is clean and crisp, but there is no finish or gloss to the print. Printing is limited to line art (logos) and text, and is available in one color. The cost to print using this method is generally 10% to 20% more, plus a one-time print plate fee.

Lithographic Printing – Lithographic printing is the type of print quality that appears on retail products such as kitchen appliances, power tools, toy boxes, etc. This is the method that is used to produce rich colors and photographic images, as well as that matte and/or semi-gloss finish. Lithographic printing utilizes offset printing presses.