Screen-printing on ribbon, how it works | Ribbon Place
What is Screen-Printing on Ribbon?
Screen-printing on ribbon is a printing technique where ink is transferred onto the ribbon through a fine mesh screen. Each design is created using a custom-made stencil, allowing ink to pass only through the areas that form the logo, text, or artwork.
Because each screen is produced specifically for your design, the finished print is consistent, crisp, and highly accurate throughout the production run.
Screen printing is best suited for single-colour designs, making it an excellent option for company logos, product branding, promotional messages, and decorative ribbons.
How Does Screen-Printing on Ribbon Work?
The screen-printing process follows several carefully controlled steps to ensure a high-quality result.
Step 1: Artwork Preparation
The process begins with your artwork. For the best results, logos and graphics should be supplied as high-resolution vector files. The design is then prepared and adjusted to suit the ribbon width and printing requirements.
Step 2: Screen Creation
A custom screen is produced for your artwork. This screen contains the exact design to be printed and acts as the stencil during the printing process.
Our screen-print facility only accommodates on colour on a print job due to the lengthy process of printing and drying each individual colour.
Step 3: Ribbon Setup
The chosen ribbon is loaded into the printing machine. We offer screen-printing on ribbon using several materials, including:
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Satin ribbon
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Petersham (grosgrain) ribbon
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TPU tape
Each material is carefully aligned to ensure consistent print positioning throughout the production run.
Step 4: Ink Application
Ink is pulled across the screen using a squeegee, forcing it through the open areas of the mesh and onto the ribbon below.
This process creates clean, sharp prints with excellent ink coverage and consistent colour.
Step 5: Drying and Finishing
After printing, the ribbon is dried or cured to ensure the ink bonds securely with the material. The finished ribbon is then inspected for print quality, alignment, and consistency before being prepared for delivery.
Materials Suitable for Screen-Printing on Ribbon
Satin Ribbon
Satin ribbon has a smooth, glossy finish that gives printed logos and text a premium appearance. It is commonly used for luxury packaging, gift wrapping, promotional products, and corporate branding.
Petersham (Grosgrain) Ribbon
Petersham, also known as grosgrain ribbon, features a textured ribbed surface that offers strength and durability. It is widely used for apparel, fashion accessories, crafts, and retail packaging.
TPU Tape
TPU tape is a flexible, durable material used in technical and industrial applications. Screen printing on TPU tape is ideal for sportswear, outdoor products, safety equipment, and performance apparel where flexibility and durability are essential.
Common Uses for Screen-Printed Ribbon
Custom screen-printed ribbon is used in a wide variety of industries, including:
- Retail packaging
- Gift wrapping
- Corporate branding
- Promotional events
- Fashion and apparel
- Floristry
- Cosmetics and beauty products
- Product packaging
- Industrial identification
- Special events and weddings
A professionally printed ribbon not only enhances the presentation of a product but also reinforces brand recognition.
Is Screen-Printing on Ribbon Right for Your Project?
If your design consists of a single-colour logo, company name, or simple artwork, or is a single colour print onto a darker coloured ribbon, then screen-printing on ribbon is an excellent choice. It offers outstanding print quality, durability, and value while allowing your brand to stand out on a variety of ribbon materials.
Whether you choose satin ribbon for luxury packaging, Petersham (grosgrain) ribbon for fashion applications, or TPU tape for technical products, screen printing provides a reliable and professional branding solution.