Have you ever heard the word offset used when you were inquiring about different printing processes? Did you wonder exactly what was meant by the word offset? It is a very popular and convenient way of printing using plates with the images to be transferred engraved in them. Offset got its name because the image does not get transferred from the plate to the paper, but there is a step in-between. This means that the plate transfers the image to what is called a “blanket” and then from here it is transferred to the finished product.

An offset press uses a technology known as CTP or computer-to-plate. What this means is that an image is created in a desktop computer publishing file and then sent straight to a plate that will be used for printing. There are both advantages and disadvantages to this technology. Some of the advantages include being able to produce offset plates in half the time it would take with other methods. These plates are also more reliable and they provide an accurate way to print.

The reason it is so accurate is because the machine holds the plates in place and they do not have to be matched up by a separate grid each time its run. Using an offset press is also faster and more productive than the older methods of printing and they normally have fewer defects.

A couple of the disadvantages include the initial cost of putting an offset press into operation can be very expensive. Many of these systems may require the cleaning and removal of some chemicals. This could prove to be time consuming. Although, offset is a great way to handle all your printing needs, it does require a knowledgeable printer to run the press. The more experienced the printer is the better the results you will receive.