Flexo Printing
Flexographic (flexo) printing uses flexible raised plates and fast-drying inks to print on labels, cartons, bags, film and corrugated boxes. An anilox roller meters a thin, even layer of ink onto the plate, which then transfers it to the material. It is the go-to method for label and packaging printers, and a fun one for hobbyists and small shops making their own labels. Below are the supplies and tools we suggest to get started or restock.
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⭐ Featured: Hand Anilox Ink Proofer
Hand Manual Ink Proofer (Anilox Roll, 160 LPI, 70mm)
Pull real flexo ink proofs by hand, no press needed. A metal anilox roller and rubber roller lay down an even, repeatable ink film 70mm (2.8in) wide on paper, carton or film, so what you see on the proof is what you'll get on press. A spring-loaded handle and a single knob set the pressure. It's great for color matching, testing water-based inks and checking shades before a run. Higher line counts lay down a thinner ink film and lower ones a thicker film.
See it on AmazonPlates & mounting
Photopolymer flexo plates
Light-sensitive plates you expose and wash out to make the raised image that carries ink.
Shop on AmazonPlate mounting tape (cushion / sticky-back)
Double-sided cushion tape that holds plates on the cylinder and controls print impression.
Shop on AmazonPlate mounting & registration tools
Registration pins, mounting guides and rulers to line plates up so colors print in register.
Shop on AmazonInks & ink control
Water-based flexo ink
Low-odor ink for paper, cardboard and corrugated. Easy cleanup with water.
Shop on AmazonUV flexo ink
Cures instantly under UV light. Great for labels and film where you need fast, tough prints.
Shop on AmazonInk viscosity cup (Zahn cup)
Time how fast ink drains to keep viscosity, and your color, consistent across a run.
Shop on AmazonDoctor blades
Thin blades that wipe extra ink off the anilox roller so the right amount reaches the plate.
Shop on AmazonCleaning & maintenance
Anilox roller cleaner
Cleaner and brushes that clear dried ink from anilox cells to bring back full ink transfer.
Shop on AmazonPress wash / plate cleaner
Wash for plates and press parts between jobs so old ink doesn't build up or contaminate colors.
Shop on AmazonStock, color & finishing
Blank label stock rolls
Blank roll labels to print on. Pick paper or film and a core size that fits your press.
Shop on AmazonLinen tester loupe (magnifier)
A folding magnifier for checking dots, registration and print quality up close.
Shop on AmazonDensitometer & color tools
Measure ink density and color so prints match from job to job.
Shop on AmazonCutting mat & blades
Self-healing mat and precision blades for trimming plates, tape and proofs.
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