Printed Tape: What is reverse printing?
By Millie Tregunno
Print & Bespoke Products Coordinator
Last updated: 14/06/21
Reverse printing, also known as negative printing, is where only the background is printed. The natural colour of the tape is left exposed to form text and graphics.
For example, in the above image (top left), a naturally white packing tape has been blanketed with black ink. However, the text has been left unprinted and remains the natural colour of the tape. This is reverse printing.
On the other hand, the top right image has ink applied in a similar way to a traditional typewriter. This is positive printing.
Reverse printing can help your packaging stand out
Reverse printing adds character, style and uniqueness to your custom printed tape. A striking background colour, combined with white text, can be very eye-catching. Furthermore, it can be a great way to highlight specific areas of your design, for example, a promotional message.
Here are a few examples of how this technique can be used for printed tape.
Reverse prints we love
No additional cost (unlike flood coating)
It doesn’t cost any extra to include reverse printing with Le Mark’s custom printed tapes. Unlike flood coating, reverse printing is part of the primary print process. Therefore, there are no additional resources required. As a result, you can include an extra design feature in your printed tape at no additional cost.
Reverse printing may require a repeat line
Edge-to-edge reverse printing will often require a repeat line. This is a thin line that runs across a small section of the tape. Thankfully, the visibility of repeat lines can be minimised by cleverly incorporating them into your design. Furthermore, repeat lines can be removed altogether by using a process called seamless printing, but this can be expensive.
Don’t want a repeat line? Consider flood coating.
Design your own printed tape
Download a design template
Summary
Reverse printing can help your packing tape appear unique and grab attention. It uses the natural colour of the tape to form the graphics, which are then ‘framed’ by printing the outlines and background. All custom tape materials can benefit from this method. However, vinyl and paper offer the best results when compared to polypropylene. As a result, they’re often the preferred choice.
Key Takeaways
- Reverse printing can help your packing tape stand out
- Reverse printing uses the natural colour of the tape to show text and graphics
- It’s available at no extra cost
- Reverse printing may include a repeat line
Talk to a human
Hi, I’m Millie
We are a family run business with traditional family values.
If you’d rather talk to a real human, just give me a call.
01480 494540
millie@lemark.co.uk