Offset printing

Offset printing is a commercial lithographic process where an image is transferred from a metal plate to a rubber blanket, and finally to the substrate. This indirect method allows for high-volume production with consistent quality, as the rubber blanket conforms to the paper surface, ensuring sharp registration of CMYK process inks.

The process relies on the chemical principle that oil-based inks repel water. Modern digital plates are exposed with laser light, creating hydrophilic and oleophilic zones that control ink flow. ISO 12647 standardizes the conditions for this method, defining tolerances for dot gain, density, and color balance to ensure predictable results across different press runs. For business cards, offset remains the primary technique for achieving precise color accuracy and fine detail on coated or uncoated stocks.