Offset lithography works on the principle of oil and water separation. ... When water and ink are applied by the rollers to the plate, the oil-based ink sticks to the image while water sticking to the non-image area repels it. Some offset printing presses use a silicone layer that repels ink instead of water.

What is the process of offset lithography?

Offset printing, also called offset lithography, is a method of mass-production printing in which the images on metal plates are transferred (offset) to rubber blankets or rollers and then to the print media. The print media, usually paper, does not come into direct contact with the metal plates.

What do you use offset lithography for?

Offset lithography is often used to print high-quality promotional materials such as branded coasters, mouse mats and product advertisers. It can also be used to print hotel over door hangers, plastic menus and tent cards among other things.