Drip-Off technique for offset printing machines

Since the printing tecnique was born, printers have paid much attention to the graphic and visual presentation. Layout, choice of fonts, handcrafted finishings and - in the following centuries - matching of colors, new papers, special formats: all the features that had the final goal of acquiring the attention of the potential buyer and possibly being remembered in the time.

In the modern era, in which the use of offset printing machines, one of the invented "stratagems" is the use of the drip-off technique which aims to involve more senses, in particular that of touch. Thanks to the special paints applied as a last coat over the printed material, glossy and other areas can be alternated, smooth, rough, satin-finished areas, for an unexpected and special tactile effect.

If we think of books, catalogs and brochures, we understand that this technique can be used to highlight some subjects over others. 

In packaging instead it is used to highlight logos and illustrations.

On a technical level this effect is achieved by spreading two different paints, one of oil-based type and the other acrylic. Two different chemical compositions of different substances.

Not all machines can do this; in fact to perform the processing in a single step you need a offset printing machine with 5 colours plus in-line coating like Heidelberg, Mitsubishi, Ryobi, Komori, KBA, Roland