Which Is The Best Printed Ribbon For Me?

Which Bespoke Printed Ribbon Method Should I Choose?

When it comes to choosing the right ribbon printing method, there are several options to consider: foil print ribbon, sublimation ribbon printing, screen ribbon printing, and letter flex ribbon printing. Each method has its own unique characteristics and benefits, so it's important to understand the differences before making a decision as to which one to order for your personalised ribbon project.

If you're ever in doubt we are always on hand and more than willing to give any advice on the best route to take for your bespoke ribbon, after all you want to make sure that you get it right and that it promotes your brand or message in the right way.

Over the years we have helped customer use bespoke ribbon for everything from a marriage proposal through to launching the opening act at Glastonbury, as well as more traditional uses such as packaging, and even some more morbid ones like Death Tags! However the one thing that they have in common is that they have to look good and more importantly perform for the desired use.

So what are the current methods of printing for Bespoke ribbons and what do they offer:

Foil Print Ribbon?

Foil print ribbon as the name suggests involves using a heat transfer process to apply resin ink from a foil substrate to the ribbon. These inks can be plain solid shades or metallic finishes which tend to be popular and create a shiny, reflective finish that is perfect for adding a touch of elegance to your designs. Foil print ribbon is great for special occasions like weddings, anniversaries, or corporate events where you want to make a statement. It is also a very quick print method that does not involve much artwork preparation as a result the minimum order quantities tend to be very low for this print method.

There are a couple of negatives to consider, as a general rule this print method is not as durable as others and in the main can not be machine washed - There are some colours that are exceptions to this rule, but always check. It can also only really be applied to smooth satin ribbon as textured finishes prove difficult to get the foils to adhere to the lower lying areas in the ribbon weave.

Pro's

Fast to print and make

Low minimum orders

Good shinny reflective finishes can be produced

Con's

Not Washable

Limited Durability

Can only really be applied to satin ribbon

These three images demonstrate the effects that can be achieved with single colour foil printing The red Vodafone Business ribbon is printed in a plain high density white foil ink. Whilst the middle image shows the effect of the Aztec Bright Gold and lastly the top life ribbon is finished in a bright cyan blue. All of these are foil prints.

What About Sublimation Ribbon Printing?

Sublimation ribbon printing is a process that involves using heat to transfer dye from a printed paper onto the ribbon. This method allows for full-colour printing with vibrant, long-lasting results. Sublimation printing is ideal for intricate designs, photos, or logos that require high-quality detail and colour accuracy. There is an element of preparation work that needs to be undertaken as the design has to first be printed in full colour on to a paper base. The plain ribbon then needs to be alined with the paper printed design and run through the machines which apply heat and pressure. As a result the ink is turned to into steam and the design penetrates the ribbon adhering to the polyester fibre dye sites.

This method generates a long lasting design that is durable and machine washable, making it ideal for a wide range of applications. Although there is artwork design and paper printing to be done this is quite a quick process and the requirements of minimum order quantities are much lower than some print methods. We currently ask for a minimum order of 100m. It is also a very costs effective method especially if you're looking for a design full of bright colours.

Pros

Cost effective

Minimum print runs from only 100m

Washable ribbon created

Very durable

Ability to create busy bright colourful designs with lot of different colours.

Can be printed on different ribbon bases including Satin, grosgrain, Taffeta & Sheer.

Cons

Not great when printing just plain one colour text as a bleeding effect can sometimes be seen on the edge of the letters.

Lead time is around two weeks from order to delivery.

Below are three images of ribbons that have been sublimation printed. These demonstrate a range of effects that can be acheived. The first shows the range of bright and vibrant colours that can be printed on a textured surface, in this case a ribboned grosgrain ribbon. The middle image somes how you can get a photo style look with these farm yard animals on a 38mm wide satin ribbon and lastly a fun bright corporate ribbon for the mothers Union in a 25mm width.demonstrating the clarity of colourand flexability of font styles that are easy to acheive since not screens or premade stamps are needed to produce these sot effective ribbons.

I've Heard Of Screen Ribbon Printing What is It?

Screen ribbon printing is a more traditional method that involves using a stencil to transfer ink onto the ribbon. This method is versatile and can be used to print simple designs or text in a variety of colours. Screen printing is a cost-effective option for bulk orders and offers good durability. This method of ribbon printing is great for text or bolder logo's in limited colours, it's very durable and gives a sharp crisp finish to the print.

This print method tends to have a larger minimum order requirement as the work needed to develop the artwork is more intensive, as physical silk screens have to be made, covered with emulsion and have the design transposed on to then. This method requires a separate screen for every colour. Once printed the ribbon has to be dried & cured between each colour application. As a result we ask for a minimum order quantity of 200m although many people require far high volumes.

This finish gives a durable washable finish and is popular with many corporate customers.

Pros

Great for bold text and logo printed

Produces a sharp crisp outline for the design

Durable

Machine Washable

Cons

Mesh screens have to be made up that can incur additional extra charges ( we currently charge £10 per screen).

On average an order take around two weeks to make and ship

Minimum order sizes tend to be higher than other methods.

Limited to a maximum of four colours in any print design.

Below is a screen printed ribbon that we ran for a customer then cut in too lengths for them, the ribbons called for a sharp design with a detailed geometric logo, just printed in one colour. This method of printing lends its self well for this type of brief and it creates sharp cleanly defined lettering and shapes which are perfectly reproduced type after time. When customers need larger quantities ( 500m and upwards) then this style of printing becomes very cost effective.

What is Letter Flex Ribbon Printing?

Letter flex ribbon printing is a process that involves cutting out letters or shapes from a vinyl material to form a printing block and heat pressing them with ink onto the ribbon. This method creates a smooth, matte finish that is great for customising ribbons with names, dates, or other personalised details. Letter flex printing is perfect for creating unique, one-of-a-kind designs. However like the screen print method there is a lot of artwork set up required which results in higher minimum quantities being required, these are currently around 1000m. As a result this is not a print method that we get much call for these days.

Which Method Should You Choose?

The best ribbon printing method for you will depend on your specific needs and preferences. If you're looking for a luxurious, metallic finish, foil print ribbon may be the way to go. For vibrant, full-colour designs, sublimation ribbon printing is a great choice and becoming one of the most popular as it offers great versatility. If you need a cost-effective option for simple designs and want a sharp clean looking print then, screen ribbon printing is a good option.

Consider factors such as design complexity, colour requirements, budget, and desired finish when choosing a ribbon printing method. Whichever method you choose, you can be sure that your ribbons will make a lasting impression at your next event or celebration. We are always here to help if you require assistance choosing the method that is right for your project, please always feel free to contact us any time for help and advice.

E mail: sales@ribbonsforyou.com Tel: 01691 780416