DTP - Screen printing Designer

Designing of Labels, Artwork preparation, positive preparation of screen printing, plate making of off-set printing, flex o printing, digital printing, Punching tools designing samples preparation, Die cuts designing related to printing, Verification of the design preparation.
1. Design & Artwork Preparation:

Concept & Design: This stage involves understanding the product, target audience, and marketing objectives. Designers create visual concepts, incorporating branding elements (logo, colors, fonts), product information (name, ingredients, usage instructions), and any required regulatory information. Software like Adobe Illustrator, Photoshop, or InDesign are commonly used.
Artwork Creation: The chosen design is then translated into print-ready artwork. This includes:
Vector Graphics: Logos and other scalable elements should be created as vector graphics for crisp reproduction at any size.
Image Resolution: Images should be high-resolution (300 dpi or higher) for print clarity.
Color Management: Color palettes should be defined (CMYK for offset, spot colors if needed) and color profiles used to ensure accurate color reproduction.
Typography: Fonts should be chosen carefully, and all text should be proofread meticulously.
Layout: The layout should be optimized for the chosen printing method and finishing processes. Consider bleed areas (extra space beyond the trim size) to avoid white edges.
File Preparation: The final artwork should be saved in the appropriate format for the chosen printing process (e.g., PDF for offset, AI or EPS for flexo). Files should be organized and clearly labeled.
2. Printing Processes:

Screen Printing:
Positive Preparation: The artwork is transferred onto a transparent film (positive). For multi-color designs, a separate positive is needed for each color.
Screen Making: A mesh screen is coated with a light-sensitive emulsion. The positive is placed on the screen and exposed to light. The unexposed emulsion washes away, leaving the image area open.
Printing: Ink is forced through the open areas of the screen onto the substrate (label stock, etc.).
Offset Printing:
Plate Making: The artwork is transferred onto printing plates (usually aluminum). This is a more complex process than screen making, involving exposure and chemical etching.
Printing: Ink is transferred from the printing plate to a rubber blanket, and then from the blanket to the substrate. Offset printing is known for high quality and is cost-effective for large print runs.
Flexo Printing:
Plate Making: Flexible printing plates (made of rubber or photopolymer) are created. The artwork is transferred to the plate, often using a digital process.
Printing: Ink is applied to the raised areas of the flexible plate and transferred to the substrate. Flexo is commonly used for labels, packaging, and flexible materials.
Digital Printing:
Pre-press: Minimal pre-press setup is required. Digital files are sent directly to the printer.
Printing: Digital printers (laser or inkjet) create the image directly onto the substrate. Digital printing is ideal for short runs, variable data printing, and quick turnaround times.
3. Finishing Processes:

Punching Tools & Die Cuts:
Design: The shape of the label or packaging is designed, considering the product and how it will be used.
Tool Making: A custom cutting die (punching tool) is created based on the design. This tool is used to cut or shape the printed material.
Sample Preparation: Samples are created to test the die cut and ensure it meets the requirements.
Verification: Throughout the entire process, verification is crucial:
Design Review: Before proceeding to print, the artwork should be reviewed and approved by the client.
Proofing: Proofs (physical or digital) are used to check color accuracy, layout, and text.
Press Checks: During the print run, press checks are performed to ensure consistent quality.
Die Cut Checks: Samples of the die-cut labels or packaging should be checked for accuracy and proper fit.

Knowledge of coral draw, AutoCAD, design tools, DTP.