What is Pad Printing?
Pad printing is a common print method used on a variety of day-to-day items. What sets this technique apart from screenprinting is its incredible versatility and ability to print on items with irregular shapes or surfaces.
Firstly, a design is etched onto a plate and the indent is filled with ink (one plate is required per colour in the design). As solvents evaporate from the ink when exposed to air, it becomes tacky and is picked up by a silicone pad. The silicone pad then deposits the ink onto the desired surface creating an impression in that colour. Silicone is used because it does not absorb ink and its unique properties enable ink to be transferred to a variety of substrates including sporting goods and promotional items.
