UV Printing

UV printing, including Direct to Object (DTO) printing, is a digital print process that uses ultraviolet light to instantly cure specially formulated inks. The printer lays down the ink onto your chosen material (the substrate), and UV lamps immediately cure it in place, creating a durable, high-definition print that’s ready to handle straight off the bed.
UV and DTO printing allow you to decorate rigid, flexible, coated and uncoated items, from phone cases, drink bottles and signage to packaging, giftware, promo products and small-run manufacturing parts.

It’s fast, versatile, low-waste and perfect for businesses wanting to offer full-colour customisation on almost any object.

What do I need to setup a UV printing business?

To get your business off the ground, you need 3 key items:

01 Printer

Your choice of printer is incredibly important, as it will determine the look and feel of your products. There are a handful of different UV printers available, including: flatbed, roll to roll and hybrid. The type of items you want to print on will determine what type of printer you need.

02 UV Inks

Your choice of inks is equally as important as your choice of printer, as these will help to determine the quality and vibrancy of the images you’re producing. Most manufacturers have their own line of inks available; using third party inks in your machine can actually void the warranty.

03 UV Blanks

Whilst a wide array of items can be used in conjunction with this method, it is important that you have chosen quality items that have been marketed as being suitable for UV. This will ensure that the ink properly adheres and that the finished image looks exactly as you imagined.
Man smiling with arms folded standing in front of computer screens.
“Gus and Machines Plus have been terrific each time I’ve contacted them. They’re a team to be in partnership with. Incredibly supportive and extremely informative. We’re extremely passionate about using this machine and it’s nice to have someone so passionate about the machine teaching us. It wouldn’t have been as much fun to learn otherwise.”
Robert Delaney
Epson SC-V1060 UV printer
Roland BD-8 & BD-12 UV flat bed printer with optional rotary attachment.
Roland versaOBJECT MO-240 & MO-180 UV flat bed printer
Roland VersaOBJECT CO-i Series of UV-LED flatbed inkjet printers
Roland DG UV printer with example of UV print on take up roll
Roland DG UV printer with example of UV print on take up roll

FAQs

Got a question? We’re here to help.
  • Why should I choose UV over other printing methods, like screen printing?

    There are actually a number of reasons why more decorators are turning to UV in place of more traditional methods. These include being able to achieve more precise results (as the curing process eliminates over absorption, leading to better ink hold out and quality), quicker turnaround times (as curing time is measured in seconds rather than minutes and hours), and the various environmental benefits (as the inks do not release volatile organic compounds, making them safer for operators and the environment).

  • Do the items need any special preparation or aftercare?

    Generally speaking, no! One of the great things about UV is that the item is ready to go once it comes out of the printer (unlike direct to garment or dye sublimation where it needs to be put into a heat press). It is important to note, however, that some substrates are not quite as receptive to UV inks as others; it is possible to use a primer ahead of time to ensure the best results possible when working with such items. The primer is incredibly easy to apply - simply wipe it on,let it air dry and you’re done.

  • Can I UV print on garments, like t-shirts and hoodies?

    Whilst there has been some talk that it is possible to use UV printing on garments, it’s definitely not something we would recommend. This is due to the inks used in the process, as they are known for being reactive and hazardous (skin irritation is the most common complaint). Fabric is so absorbent that the ink will penetrate deeply into the fibres; the UV light cannot always penetrate deeply enough to cure them. It is best to use UV with items that will not come into direct contact with the skin for extended periods of time.

  • I’ve heard that UV inks are unsafe; is this true?

    Although the inks are safe once they have been completely cured, it is important to note that liquid or incompletely cured ink has been known to cause skin irritation and rashes. Incomplete curing is sometimes used to demonstrate ink flexibility and good adhesion on more difficult substrates (such as fabrics). This is very hazardous (as well as misleading) and should be avoided at all costs. If the ink smears or the image can be damaged by placing your finger on it, it has not fully cured. 

  • Do the prints withstand washing?

    In short, yes. UV ink is weather resistant and does not fade quickly, so you can rest assured that it will stand up to being washed multiple times without issue (providing the inks have been properly cured, of course). Research has also shown that UV inks are better able to resist scratching, rubbing and general wear and tear than the inks used in other printing processes. Most people find that the images will last from 3 to 5 years when placed outdoors and up to 10 years when placed indoors.