Narrow Web Printing Guide
What is narrow web printing?
Narrow web label (NWL) printing is a rotary technique that uses any web with a width of 16 inches or less. This printing method can incorporate multiple in-line converting processes and is ideal for producing smaller print runs. It offers a cost-effective alternative to high-volume label printing while maintaining flexibility and print quality.
Wide Web Flexography vs. Narrow Web Printing
Narrow web printing is especially useful for businesses with smaller-scale printing needs. It helps reduce waste and overhead while still delivering sharp, consistent results. One of the main distinctions between narrow and wide web printing lies in project size and production scale.
Wide Web Flexo Printing
Flexographic printing uses flexible printing plates mounted on rotary presses. These plates contain raised graphics and text that transfer ink directly onto the substrate. Wide web flexo printing is ideal for medium to long press runs and high-volume production. It’s commonly used in applications like newspaper and magazine publishing, paperboard cartons, and corrugated packaging.
Narrow Web Label Printing
Narrow web printing is particularly effective for flexible packaging and labels. Unlike traditional analog methods, digital narrow web printing uses inkjet technology to propel ink onto the substrate without physical contact. This reduces setup time and human error while enabling fast turnarounds and varied print designs.
Another benefit of narrow web printing is its compatibility with multiple in-line processes. Printers can integrate steps such as sheeting, laminating, flatbed die-cutting, hot foil stamping, perforating, and even inkjet personalization. This makes narrow web printing a dominant solution for high-quality labels and customized packaging.
This process dominates label printing, as progressive companies are utilizing the technology for flexible packaging.
When to Utilize Narrow Web Printing
Narrow web printing is an excellent choice when:
- You need narrow-width label or packaging solutions.
- Your designs change frequently or require short runs.
- Your print order volume is small.
- You want sharp, high-resolution images with consistent quality.
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NWL Water-Based Inks and Coatings
Water-based inks and coatings are a strong match for narrow web printing applications. These formulations offer significant environmental and safety advantages over traditional solvent-based products. They are recyclable, non-toxic, and emit fewer volatile organic compounds (VOCs), supporting compliance with environmental regulations while maintaining vibrant, reliable print results.
The Benefits of Working With Magnum Inks & Coatings
Magnum Inks & Coatings provides high-performing water-based inks and coatings designed to meet the demands of narrow web label and flexible packaging applications. When you work with us, you benefit from:
- Quality: Our water-based solutions deliver strong adhesion and vivid, consistent color performance on paper, foil, and film substrates.
- Options: Choose from a wide range of inks and coatings tailored for narrow web printing and diverse printing surfaces.
- Expertise: Our experienced team develops and customizes products to meet the specific needs of your operation.
As proud members of the Flexographic Technical Association (FTA), American Independent Corrugated Companies (AICC), and the Technical Association of the Pulp and Paper Industry (TAPPI), we uphold rigorous standards for quality and innovation.
At Magnum Inks & Coatings, we also offer some of the fastest turnaround times in the narrow web printing industry, including next-day shipping on select products.
Contact Magnum Inks & Coatings today for a custom quote and discover how our water-based narrow web printing solutions can support your business.
