Ever wonder how your logo ends up so cleanly printed on a plastic bag? At M Plastics, we use flexographic printing — a high-speed, high-volume method that transfers ink onto flexible film with precision and durability. Here’s a look behind the scenes.
What Is Flexographic Printing?
Flexographic (“flexo”) printing uses flexible photopolymer plates to apply ink to substrates like LDPE film. It’s ideal for packaging because it’s fast, scalable, and adaptable to different film types and mil thicknesses.
The Process, Step by Step
- Plate creation — each color in your design gets its own printing plate.
- Ink transfer — anilox rollers meter ink onto the plate, which transfers it to the film.
- Drying — the printed film passes through dryers so the ink cures quickly.
- Inspection — rolls are checked for registration and clarity before converting.
We print up to 6 colors, on layflat, gusseted, or wicketed bags.
What Can Be Printed?
- Warning messages and regulatory icons
- Product codes, logos, and branding
- Recycling instructions
- Lot identification and barcodes
Food-grade inks are available for food packaging applications.
Why It Matters
Printing isn’t just about looks — it adds functionality, safety, and brand recognition. Even a simple warning print can keep your product compliant (think suffocation warnings on wicket bags). Flexo ink bonds to the film so your message won’t smear, flake, or disappear in transit.
Final Thoughts
Flexo printing transforms plain plastic into custom packaging that informs and protects. If you want branding, warnings, or traceability on your bags, we have the press and the plates to make it happen — see our custom packaging options or request a quote to talk print.
Have a Packaging Question?
M Plastics manufactures LDPE bags and film in Los Angeles with in-house extrusion and printing. Tell us what you're packaging and we'll help you spec the right bag.
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