Decoration
Printing and labeling for plastic bottles
A short version of our decoration service page: what we print, on what, and what artwork we need before a proof is issued.
Methods
Choose by look, durability and volume
| Method | Best for | Watch out for |
|---|---|---|
| Silk screen | Bold single-colour logos and text on curved surfaces; excellent chemical resistance | Each colour is a separate pass — cost climbs with colour count |
| Hot stamping | Metallic gold and silver accents; premium skincare and perfume look | Needs a flat or gently curved area; artwork must allow for foil stretch |
| Pressure-sensitive label | Photo-quality graphics, variable data, small batches, short runs | Label edge must avoid the grip area on squeeze bottles |
| Coating & frosting | Soft-touch or matte finish on HDPE; frosted look on PET | Changes surface energy — test the adhesive of your label afterwards |
| Metallizing | Reflective, premium caps and jars | Not suitable for products that will be scratched in transport |
Artwork
What to send with your print file
- Vector artwork — AI, EPS or PDF with text converted to outlines
- Colour references — Pantone numbers, or a physical sample we can match
- Placement drawing — where the print sits relative to the bottle seam and the cap
- Tolerance note — how much print shift is acceptable on a curved surface
We return a digital proof on a photo of your bottle, then a printed sample for sign-off. Production starts after that approval.
FAQ
Decoration questions
Can you print on a bottle we already buy elsewhere?
Usually yes, if the shape allows a stable print position. Send a sample and we will confirm before quoting.
How many colours can you print?
Silk screen handles up to four colours comfortably; more colours are possible but each pass adds cost and lead time.
Do you match Pantone colours?
We match to Pantone references on the actual resin colour. Expect a small shift between flat Pantone and print on a curved, coloured surface.
Is printing done before or after filling?
Before filling — we print, cure, then pack. If you fill in-house, tell us so we can choose a print system that resists your product.