In the latest Packaging World, our very own Gordon and Lonnie discuss how to narrow the interpretation gap between design exploration and the actual print run when you take into account certain variables upstream in the process…

To Read the Full Story: http://www.packworld.com/package-design/strategy/narrowing-interpretation-gap-between-design-and-commercialization

Inwork exclusively possesses the first table top Cast & Cure™ unit housed at Inwork North, our new Innovation Center in Garnerville, New York.

This one-of-a-kind production system provides Inwork the unique capability of creating one-off comprehensives or several hundred packaging samples that truly represent the production quality of Cast & Cure™ effects.

“This technology supports Inwork’s philosophy of providing discovery and innovation, allowing us to work with our partners in design to achieve the best possible result early in the design process, rather than applying an effect as an afterthought,” says Gordon Plotkin, Principal, Inwork, Inc.

But what is Cast & Cure™, you ask?

Cast & Cure™ is a decorative coating process that enhances the traditional varnishing process by “casting” a holographic pattern into the surface of a clear UV coating.

This micro-embossing technique allows holographic effects to be employed at a significantly reduced cost compared to traditional holographic materials. It is also a fully sustainable process–providing designers a broad pallet of decorating options while “keeping the faith” to sustainable agendas.

According to Tim Cain, President, Breit Technologies, developer of Cast & Cure™ and co-developer of the tabletop unit with Inwork, “This allows designers to create an impactful image without distracting from graphics on the package, thus enhancing their design while also reducing costs and carbon footprint.”

Read the full story: http://www.prweb.com/releases/2011/10/prweb8917687.htm

Ok! Just so we’re clear. I am not a designer, and I ‘m not here to judge.

Fact is, I have only one part to play…production. What I care about, and passionately so–is that whatever comes out of your collective, creative braincan somehow be printed on some kind of device, and in some kind of print process other than the printer in your office.

I affectionately call this IDROP  or “Is Design Reproducible on Press?”

Read the full article at…
http://www.thedieline.com/blog/2012/3/1/idrop-9-steps-to-better-press-outcomes.html