Flexography Printing: The Complete Guide
Flexography is built for speed and scale. It delivers efficient production for large quantities of bags with clean, simple artwork and repeatable patterns.
At a glance
What is Flexography?
Flexography is a high-speed printing process that uses flexible relief plates and an anilox roller to transfer ink in a controlled, repeatable film. The method is engineered for long production runs, where setup is optimized and the per-unit cost drops quickly as volume increases. Flexo is especially effective for simple vector artwork, single-color logos, and repeat patterns that need to be produced quickly at scale. The equipment is designed for rapid throughput and consistent coverage, making flexography a strong manufacturing choice for supply chains that require predictable output.
Because flexography prioritizes speed and efficiency, the print detail is not as fine as offset, and gradients or photographic images are less reliable. The ink film is thinner, which helps with drying times and production pace, but it also limits how much tonal depth can be achieved. For custom production at scale, flexography excels when the artwork is clear, bold, and optimized for repetition. If the primary requirement is a cost-effective run with fast turnaround and consistent placement, flexography offers a dependable balance of speed and economy.
How Flexography works
Plate creation
Flexible plates are made for each color and mounted to cylinders.
Ink metering
Anilox rollers deliver a thin, consistent ink film at speed.
High-speed run
Bags move continuously through the press for rapid output.
Quality pass
Registration and color consistency are checked across the run.
Flexography vs. Screen Printing
Frequently asked questions
Is flexography good for large orders?
Yes. It is designed for high-speed output and becomes most economical at large volumes.
What is the minimum order for flexography?
Flexography typically starts around 5,000 pieces to justify setup.
Can flexography print full-color images?
It is best for simple artwork. Photographic detail and gradients are limited.
Compatible products
Bag styles that highlight Flexography output and durability.