CD/DVD printing and packaging

Once you decide how to produce your discs, you then have to decide how they're going to look and how you want to package them.

CD/DVD printing options
Vendors generally offer three ways to print the front of your discs. Silkscreen printing is the most common. This works by pressing one color at a time through screens. The quality varies based on the number of colors used.

For highly detailed artwork and photographs, offset printing offers the best resolution. Unlike other print methods, it allows you to print edge to edge on the disc’s surface. While offset printing is often the most expensive, some vendors offer it as part of replication services.

At the low end, a thermal printer can apply basic text and graphics in black or a single color. This is best when you’re less concerned about presentation or on a tight budget.

Packaging options
Most CD/DVD vendors will provide basic packaging for your discs, typically plain envelopes or spindles, although jewel cases or printed cardboard sleeves may be included in your price. You can upgrade your packaging by purchasing high-quality jewel cases or colorful cardboard mailers for CDs, or clamshell style "Amaray" cases or sturdy "Digipaks" for DVDs.

If you plan to sell your discs or distribute them to clients, you probably want them to look professional with full-color packaging and your corporate branding. Vendors can provide full-color artwork for the packaging and inserts to enhance the presentation. You may want to include a booklet containing detailed information, or a tray card or inlay to add visual punch. Whatever your goal, the vendor can work with you to suggest options that can bring your vision to life.

Assembly
Assembling your finished media is typically an automated process that packages together the different pieces you chose. Once assembled, the discs are shrinkwrapped for resale or distribution. If you choose special packaging that needs to be assembled by hand, you’ll be responsible for additional charges.