There are a few different techniques used for CD printing. Artists and amateur groups of musicians can approach a CD replicator service to replicate the CD as well as print and package the CD.



One of the most popular techniques used is CD silkscreening. This is a process that is used for transferring graphics and other art work onto textiles including T-shirts. The process of CD printing using a silkscreen involves a thick layer of ink poured onto a stencil. The excess ink is scraped off while the remaining ink is forced through the holes of the stencil to create an image on the surface of the Compact Disc.

Apart from CD silkscreening some other techniques used to create an attractive cover include inkjet printing on the surface of the CD. This technique uses a CMYK Inkjet printer that propels tiny droplets of liquid ink onto specially-coated CD-R and DVD-R surface. CD printing through this technique is usually finished with a hand coating of hardened lacquer. This treatment prevents the surface of the CD from getting spoilt due to smudges. By using an inkjet printer for CD printing, individuals can get stunning printing in high resolution.

Thermal transfer printing is another process used for CD printing. The thermal transfer process is based on melting a coating of colored ribbon onto the surface of the CD-R or DVD-R. Each color is printed individually onto the second ribbon- the transfer ribbon.

This technique of CD printing is very effective in small runs. It provides a stunning finish that is often superior to lithographically printed CDs. The set up time for the CD printing is also very quick. This allows the process to be done quickly.

Lithographic or Offset Printing is another technique of CD printing. It is used most commonly for high-volume commercial printing. CD printing with this printer can be done in one of two ways. The CD replication service carrying out this job could place the artwork and layout directly on the printing plate or could create a physical "paste up" from the layout that will than be exposed to the plates using a process camera, film negatives, and chemical treatment.

The advantage of this system of CD printing is that it allows for highly detailed photographic images and small text to be applied to the media in great quantities. This system of printing works well when there are more than 1,000 CD covers to be printed.