This easy-to-use packaging workbook is a resource for guiding packaging buyers through the step by step process of developing packaging solutions. Topics include:
Dennis Bacchetta
Diamondessence™
Packaging
Friday, May 11, 2007
Packaging Diva Tells All in New Book
JoAnn Hines, the Packaging Diva, tells all in her newest release, Do It Yourself Packaging Workbook.
This easy-to-use packaging workbook is a resource for guiding packaging buyers through the step by step process of developing packaging solutions. Topics include:
The "Nuts and Bolts" of how product packaging works
The "How To" of packaging your product to sell
The "Inside Scoop" on finding a packaging supplier
How to have premium packaging on a startup budget
How to avoid packaging disasters
How to get started packaging your product if you know nothing at all about packaging
Dennis Bacchetta
Diamondessence™
Packaging
This easy-to-use packaging workbook is a resource for guiding packaging buyers through the step by step process of developing packaging solutions. Topics include:
Dennis Bacchetta
Diamondessence™
Packaging
Friday, March 16, 2007
Wal-Mart Releases Initial Results of Packaging Scorecard
During the second annual Sustainable Packaging Exposition, Wal-Mart Stores, Inc. released the initial results of its Packaging Scorecard. The scorecard, which was launched on Feb. 1, evaluates Wal-Mart and Sam’s Club suppliers on the sustainability of their packaging and offers suggestions for improvement. more
Dennis Bacchetta
Diamondessence™
Packaging
Dennis Bacchetta
Diamondessence™
Packaging
Wednesday, February 28, 2007
Designing With Foil - part 2
This segment is the second in a three-part series that will discuss areas of production where the design of a piece directly impacts cost, quality, and the overall success of the job.
Avoid Knock Outs
When stamping a piece that has been printed, it is best to stamp over the ink instead of knocking out the image to be foil stamped. Metallic foils are completely opaque, so it is unnecessary to knock the image out. Trying to hit the exact mark
every time in perfect registration is an impossible task.
Because every press has a slight amount of movement, creating a piece with the images knocked out is creating a registration nightmare. The answer? Simply print the entire piece and overstamp the images, making sure that the correct inks and coatings are used.
Build in Trap
Situations do exist when an image needs to be knocked out. For example, when stamping a piece with foil that is not completely opaque, such as with a pearl or pigment foil. If knock out is necessary to maintain color integrity, then it is imperative that appropriate trap be built into the design, just as with printing. Trap, as far as foil stamping is concerned, is defined as fattening up the foiled image so as to allow for a small amount of overlap onto the printed area, thereby accounting for slight variances in registration. The amount of trap that should be built into the design can depend on several variables, including size of the image, type of the font (i.e., serif vs. sans serif), and even the type of die used – as some will expand more than others. However, as a general rule of thumb, the amount of trap should equal at least .020” or approximately 1/64.
Reprinted with permission from the Foil Stamping and Embossing Association (FSEA).
Dennis Bacchetta
Diamondessence™
Packaging
Avoid Knock Outs
When stamping a piece that has been printed, it is best to stamp over the ink instead of knocking out the image to be foil stamped. Metallic foils are completely opaque, so it is unnecessary to knock the image out. Trying to hit the exact mark
every time in perfect registration is an impossible task.
Because every press has a slight amount of movement, creating a piece with the images knocked out is creating a registration nightmare. The answer? Simply print the entire piece and overstamp the images, making sure that the correct inks and coatings are used.
Build in Trap
Situations do exist when an image needs to be knocked out. For example, when stamping a piece with foil that is not completely opaque, such as with a pearl or pigment foil. If knock out is necessary to maintain color integrity, then it is imperative that appropriate trap be built into the design, just as with printing. Trap, as far as foil stamping is concerned, is defined as fattening up the foiled image so as to allow for a small amount of overlap onto the printed area, thereby accounting for slight variances in registration. The amount of trap that should be built into the design can depend on several variables, including size of the image, type of the font (i.e., serif vs. sans serif), and even the type of die used – as some will expand more than others. However, as a general rule of thumb, the amount of trap should equal at least .020” or approximately 1/64.
Reprinted with permission from the Foil Stamping and Embossing Association (FSEA).
Dennis Bacchetta
Diamondessence™
Packaging
Friday, January 19, 2007
Designing With Foil - part 1
Understanding various production techniques and how the design can affect the final outcome of a project is very important to ensure the highest quality work at the most efficient cost. This segment is the first of a three-part series that will discuss areas of production where the design of a piece directly impacts cost, quality, and the overall success of the job.
Image Placement
When dealing with multiple passes of hot stamping foil, where the images are placed within the design is extremely important in determining the number of passes it will take to foil stamp the piece on press. This is one area in the design process where communication with the foil stamper could possibly save production time and money. A slight change in the placement of an image may save an entire pass on press.
Many variables come into play when deciding whether or not to run a job with multiple foil pulls:
- Press type
- Direction of feed
- Placement of images to be stamped and/or embossed
- Types of foils specified
- Type of substrate
However, as a general rule, to run multiple webs of foil, you will need at least one inch between images to allow for foil waste and die lock-up. The key here is to discuss your options with your foil stamper while still in the design process.
Also keep in mind that stamping fine-line, intricate images at the same time as ones requiring large, solid coverage can be a challenge, depending on the variables listed above. These types of designs may also require additional passes through the press – even if ample space is allotted between images. Again, communication with your foil stamper is key.
Reprinted with permission from the Foil Stamping and Embossing Association (FSEA).
Dennis Bacchetta
Diamondessence™
Packaging
Monday, December 04, 2006
Diamond Introduces Diamondsessence™ Packaging
Diamond Packaging recently announced the introduction of Diamondessence™ combination packaging, new folding carton designs to leverage brand equity and deliver maximum impact on store shelves.
Packaging is branding. Innovations in structures and substrates offer marketers a number of competitive advantages, including perceived value, brand differentiation, and shelf prominence.
Plastic has added a whole new dimension to packaging, creating a visible link between the packaging and the product itself. It is this connection that helps builds brand loyalty over time.
Diamond has embraced this trend by investing in new state-of-the-art windowing equipment to deliver paperboard, plastic or combination packaging that reveals the product inside. Packaging that inspires. Packaging that sells. more
Dennis Bacchetta
Diamondessence™
Packaging
Tuesday, October 17, 2006
Structural Design Considerations
Packaging is a complex and important part in the sale of thousands of products every day. The role packaging plays in our lives begins long before it lands on the shelf of your favorite supermarket or department store but carries throughout the sale of the product. An important element of any package is its structure. Structural design performs many functions including containment, protection, and shelf appeal that all contribute to the success of a product. more
Dennis Bacchetta
Diamondessence™
Packaging
Dennis Bacchetta
Diamondessence™
Packaging
Friday, September 15, 2006
Foil vs. Foilboard
In the competition for consumer attention, which is better: foil or foilboard?
Foil and foilboard are both powerful tools for refreshing consumer interest and increasing product differentiation in the retail environment. Both provide a distinct visual snap that reinforces brand identity and elevates perceptions of value, quality and brand authenticity; and both are available in a variety of colors, patterns and sizes.
But for all of their similarities, there are significant technical differences between foil and foilboard, and the choice between the two is best made after careful consideration of the primary project requirements of quality, cost and time. capable of applying a non-tarnishing metallic foil print to paper, plastic or paperboard. more
Dennis Bacchetta
Diamondessence™
Packaging
Foil and foilboard are both powerful tools for refreshing consumer interest and increasing product differentiation in the retail environment. Both provide a distinct visual snap that reinforces brand identity and elevates perceptions of value, quality and brand authenticity; and both are available in a variety of colors, patterns and sizes.
But for all of their similarities, there are significant technical differences between foil and foilboard, and the choice between the two is best made after careful consideration of the primary project requirements of quality, cost and time. capable of applying a non-tarnishing metallic foil print to paper, plastic or paperboard. more
Dennis Bacchetta
Diamondessence™
Packaging
Monday, August 07, 2006
Decorating with Foil
The appearance of shiny, foil stamped packaging on retail shelves is a sure sign of the holiday season. Consumer research shows that foil is more likely to catch the eyes of busy holiday shoppers and increase their perceptions of product quality and appeal
However, the retail environment remains crowded long after the holiday season has passed, and manufacturers are turning to more upscale packaging to enhance brand identity and shelf appeal all year around. In this competition for consumer attention, the advantages of foil stamping shine brightly. more
Dennis Bacchetta
Packaging
However, the retail environment remains crowded long after the holiday season has passed, and manufacturers are turning to more upscale packaging to enhance brand identity and shelf appeal all year around. In this competition for consumer attention, the advantages of foil stamping shine brightly. more
Dennis Bacchetta
Packaging
Sunday, July 16, 2006
Weyerhaeuser Retail Symposium
The Seventh Annual Weyerhaeuser Retail Symposium will be held September 14, 2006 in Aurora, IL. This year's event will focus on sustainability, market drivers, shopper trends, RFID technology, and private labeling.
Visit the website for more information.
Dennis Bacchetta
Packaging
Visit the website for more information.
Dennis Bacchetta
Packaging
Thursday, June 08, 2006
The Allure of Plastic: A Look at Polypropylene
In previous articles we highlighted the characteristics and applications of polyvinylchloride (PVC) and amorphous polyethylene terephthalate (APET). This month we take a closer look at another versatile plastic, polypropylene.
One of polypropylene’s greatest strengths is its strength. It has traditionally been a substrate of choice in the textile and automotive industries, because it provides excellent impact cushioning and withstands exposure to most chemicals, heat and extreme weather.
More recently, the consumer goods industry has taken notice of this plastic workhorse and its particular applications for confectionery, stationery, food, and cosmetics packaging.
Polypropylene is recyclable, food-safe, and relatively inexpensive compared to other plastic substrates. Although it lacks the glass-like clarity of APET, the advantages of this durable material are clear.
Polypropylene offers a unique combination of usability and aesthetic appeal. It is exceptionally resistant to fatigue, making it ideal for “living hinges” on hair care products, lotion, cosmetics, and other flip-top bottles. Its ability to be cut, creased, and heat scored greatly expands creative design potential for folding cartons.
Polypropylene can be produced clear, clear with colored tints or in solid colors, and can be surface printed, coated, foil stamped or embossed to fulfill almost any custom requirements.
Enhanced consumer-product interaction is made possible by embedding a fragrance directly into the polypropylene compound. This technique is more permanent than using specialty coatings, which tend to dissipate over time. By choosing a customized formula that compliments the product inside, branding is secured and “scents”-ible.
Polypropylene is especially well-suited for:
Food and Confectionery
Microwave-ready meals
Pudding and dairy products
Soup and other liquids
Reuseable packaging
Health and Beauty Products
Flip-top bottles
Folding cartons
Durable displays
Although polypropylene is manufactured on conventional equipment, its molecular structure requires special care to cut, score and print properly. Choosing a supplier with experience and expertise in converting polypropylene can help turn your plastic packaging ideas into a reality.
The quarterly e-newsletter is also delivered free to email subscribers.
Click here to subscribe.
Dennis Bacchetta
Packaging
One of polypropylene’s greatest strengths is its strength. It has traditionally been a substrate of choice in the textile and automotive industries, because it provides excellent impact cushioning and withstands exposure to most chemicals, heat and extreme weather.
More recently, the consumer goods industry has taken notice of this plastic workhorse and its particular applications for confectionery, stationery, food, and cosmetics packaging.
Polypropylene is recyclable, food-safe, and relatively inexpensive compared to other plastic substrates. Although it lacks the glass-like clarity of APET, the advantages of this durable material are clear.
Polypropylene offers a unique combination of usability and aesthetic appeal. It is exceptionally resistant to fatigue, making it ideal for “living hinges” on hair care products, lotion, cosmetics, and other flip-top bottles. Its ability to be cut, creased, and heat scored greatly expands creative design potential for folding cartons.
Polypropylene can be produced clear, clear with colored tints or in solid colors, and can be surface printed, coated, foil stamped or embossed to fulfill almost any custom requirements.
Enhanced consumer-product interaction is made possible by embedding a fragrance directly into the polypropylene compound. This technique is more permanent than using specialty coatings, which tend to dissipate over time. By choosing a customized formula that compliments the product inside, branding is secured and “scents”-ible.
Polypropylene is especially well-suited for:
Food and Confectionery
Health and Beauty Products
Although polypropylene is manufactured on conventional equipment, its molecular structure requires special care to cut, score and print properly. Choosing a supplier with experience and expertise in converting polypropylene can help turn your plastic packaging ideas into a reality.
The quarterly e-newsletter is also delivered free to email subscribers.
Click here to subscribe.
Dennis Bacchetta
Packaging
Thursday, May 11, 2006
Key Questions To Ask Your Packaging Supplier
The Independent Carton Group (ICG) recently published a study titled Pressing The Issue. It details how packaging buyers can create opportunities by asking a few questions about press technology.
Click here to read the study.
Dennis Bacchetta
Packaging
Click here to read the study.
Dennis Bacchetta
Packaging
Friday, April 28, 2006
GPA Holds Annual Meeting in Japan
The Global Packaging Alliance (GPA) held its annual meeting in Nagoya, Japan during the week of January 23, 2006. With members convening from all over the world, the yearly event was a much-anticipated chance to discuss strategies and goals, and provided an opportunity for alliance members to evaluate potential partnerships to supply the world’s second-largest economy. more
Dennis Bacchetta
Packaging
Dennis Bacchetta
Packaging
Wednesday, April 19, 2006
RFID To Change The World
An new article titled "Changing the World" appears in the April 2006 issue of Pharmaceutical & Medical Packaging News. It discusses how the FDA and others at RFID World are convinced that RFID can thwart counterfeiters and ease inventory tracking.
Randall Lutter, FDA’s associate commissioner for policy and planning, who was the event’s keynote speaker, said “RFID is feasible by 2007.” more
Dennis Bacchetta
Packaging
Randall Lutter, FDA’s associate commissioner for policy and planning, who was the event’s keynote speaker, said “RFID is feasible by 2007.” more
Dennis Bacchetta
Packaging
Tuesday, March 28, 2006
Diamond Named Best Workplace in America
Dennis Bacchetta
Packaging
Thursday, March 02, 2006
The Allure of Plastic: A Look at APET
In a previous post we examined the characteristics and applications of polyvinylchloride or PVC.
This month we highlight another popular plastic substrate, amorphous polyethylene terephthalate, otherwise known as APET.
APET’s amorphous composition uniquely combines structural strength with glass-like clarity for a substrate that looks good and performs well for a wide range of applications.
APET resists cracking and does not whiten when flexed or bent. It is easily thermoformed (more quickly and economically than PVC), and its crystal-clarity makes it an ideal selection for attractive packaging with maximum product visibility.
In addition to its visual appeal, APET also offers superior barrier protection, keeping products safe from external liquids and gases, and promoting retention of product flavor and aroma. APET is clearly durable, tolerating temperatures from -40C to +70C. Because it is non-toxic, environmentally friendly, and can be sterilized by ETO and Gamma radiation, APET is well-suited for disposable food and medication packaging.
Advances in printing techniques have elevated APET to the arena of premium products. The application of custom colors and foil stamping greatly expand your options for creative packaging that simultaneously protects and reveals the beauty of what’s inside.
The Gillette Company chose APET versatility for several of its high profile product launches, including Gillette for Women Venus™ and MACH3 Turbo.
The Venus plastic banner card was converted from .012 APET and features six different inks printed on one side of the substrate while the logo and other design elements were stamped with specially formulated foils on the other. The translucent nature of the plastic substrate evokes an elegant look and feel, allowing the beauty of the razor handle to show through.
APET uniquely retains product integrity while promoting customer interaction, making it a clear choice for applications as diverse as:
Consumer goods
Health and beauty items
Pharmaceutical and medical products
Food and confectionery
Point-of-purchase (POP) displays
Electronics packaging
Apparel
Toys
Single-use products
Gifts and novelty items
Plastic has added a whole new dimension to packaging, turning the ordinary into the extraordinary. As you can see, however, choosing a substrate is more complex than simply asking “paper or plastic?” Choosing a folding carton supplier with experience and expertise in converting plastic is just as important to the decision making process.
In a future issue we’ll explore polypropylene, another popular plastic substrate. In the meantime, consider the advantages of plastic for your next package design.
Dennis Bacchetta
Packaging
This month we highlight another popular plastic substrate, amorphous polyethylene terephthalate, otherwise known as APET.
APET’s amorphous composition uniquely combines structural strength with glass-like clarity for a substrate that looks good and performs well for a wide range of applications.
APET resists cracking and does not whiten when flexed or bent. It is easily thermoformed (more quickly and economically than PVC), and its crystal-clarity makes it an ideal selection for attractive packaging with maximum product visibility.
In addition to its visual appeal, APET also offers superior barrier protection, keeping products safe from external liquids and gases, and promoting retention of product flavor and aroma. APET is clearly durable, tolerating temperatures from -40C to +70C. Because it is non-toxic, environmentally friendly, and can be sterilized by ETO and Gamma radiation, APET is well-suited for disposable food and medication packaging.
Advances in printing techniques have elevated APET to the arena of premium products. The application of custom colors and foil stamping greatly expand your options for creative packaging that simultaneously protects and reveals the beauty of what’s inside.
The Gillette Company chose APET versatility for several of its high profile product launches, including Gillette for Women Venus™ and MACH3 Turbo.
The Venus plastic banner card was converted from .012 APET and features six different inks printed on one side of the substrate while the logo and other design elements were stamped with specially formulated foils on the other. The translucent nature of the plastic substrate evokes an elegant look and feel, allowing the beauty of the razor handle to show through.
APET uniquely retains product integrity while promoting customer interaction, making it a clear choice for applications as diverse as:
Plastic has added a whole new dimension to packaging, turning the ordinary into the extraordinary. As you can see, however, choosing a substrate is more complex than simply asking “paper or plastic?” Choosing a folding carton supplier with experience and expertise in converting plastic is just as important to the decision making process.
In a future issue we’ll explore polypropylene, another popular plastic substrate. In the meantime, consider the advantages of plastic for your next package design.
Dennis Bacchetta
Packaging
Thursday, February 23, 2006
Box Clever: Lifting the Lid on Today's Packaging Innovators
With more people working longer hours and the decline of the traditional family unit, manufacturers fast caught on to the fact that consumers wanted quick, easy-to-use products that could slot conveniently into their hectic lifestyles.
However, despite these products making life easier for consumers, consumers aren’t making life any easier for the suppliers. Brand competition, price wars, health concerns and diet fads are just some of the drivers in convenience products. And the packaging industry is being squeezed from both sides. Consumers want smaller and more disposable packaging but the marketers want more packaging for less money. They also want instantly eye- and wallet-catching designs that can incorporate free buying incentives such as toys, coupons and collectibles. more
Dennis Bacchetta
Packaging
However, despite these products making life easier for consumers, consumers aren’t making life any easier for the suppliers. Brand competition, price wars, health concerns and diet fads are just some of the drivers in convenience products. And the packaging industry is being squeezed from both sides. Consumers want smaller and more disposable packaging but the marketers want more packaging for less money. They also want instantly eye- and wallet-catching designs that can incorporate free buying incentives such as toys, coupons and collectibles. more
Dennis Bacchetta
Packaging
Monday, January 09, 2006
IoPP to Tour Diamond Packaging
The Institute of Packaging Professionals (IoPP) will be taking a tour of the Diamond Packaging carton plant and Diamond Contract Manufacturing (DCM) contract packaging plant on Tuesday, January 10, 2005. Diamond designs and manufactures innovative paperboard and plastic packaging, counter-top displays, physician sample packaging, blister cards, stretch cards, and dispenser cartons.
The tour will be followed by dinner at Rick's Prime Rib and a presentation by Harry Voss, Chairman of Diamond Packaging, regarding "How Diamond is dealing with Global Customers and working in the Global Market Place".
Visit the IoPP website for more information or to register online.
The tour will be followed by dinner at Rick's Prime Rib and a presentation by Harry Voss, Chairman of Diamond Packaging, regarding "How Diamond is dealing with Global Customers and working in the Global Market Place".
Visit the IoPP website for more information or to register online.
Wednesday, November 30, 2005
Reaching Consumers on an Emotional Level
Coty’s expertise in developing products that resonate with consumers is enhanced by aligning themselves with celebrities who are involved with the entire creative process. Diamond worked closely with the Coty design team from the beginning, ensuring that the packaging reflected the celebrity’s personality and style.
The design is an excellent example of how packaging can connect with consumers on an emotional level. It is this emotional connection that helps build brand loyalty over time. more
Dennis Bacchetta
Packaging
Wednesday, October 05, 2005
The Allure of Plastic: A Look at PVC Folding Cartons
However, over the last five years plastic has steadily gained favor for its aesthetic properties, and is now recognized as a clear winner in the competition for shelf appeal. Plastic packaging is available in a variety of elegant finishes and effects that allow the beauty of your product to show through. Clear, lined and frosted versions can be matched to almost any color for maximum brand exposure and custom product design.
Additionally, plastic converters have mastered techniques once reserved for paperboard, such as printing on plastic, spot coating, foil stamping and embossing, making plastic as attractive as it is functional.
It is this unique combination of beauty and durability that makes plastic ideal for versatile product packaging and point-of-purchase (POP) displays. more
Dennis Bacchetta
Packaging
Friday, September 30, 2005
Packaging Students Win Honors in Packaging Competition
Students from the Rochester Institute of Technology (RIT) earned top honors in the Paperboard Packaging Alliance's (PPA) first annual Student Design Challenge competition. The competition challenged students to create a promotional piece showcasing the functionality of paperboard packaging.
The winning entry, titled "Build Innovation", was designed by Jennifer Farrin (senior), David Lickstein (senior), and Robin Matusik (senior).
The structure was constructed with a push-out tray and windowed sleeve that features the "Build Innovation" message when closed, and reveals the PPA website address as the tray is pushed out of the sleeve. The tray top opens to reveal 10 slotted "building" cards that describe paperboard attributes such as "renewable", "promote", "protect", "versatile", and "recycle."
“Paperboard is versatile material coming from renewable and recycled resources and serving markets from pharmaceuticals/healthcare to software, candy to cosmetics, and beverages to food,” said Deanna Jacobs, RIT professor of packaging science. “Creative uses of material will ultimately save resources and energy and continue to meet the demands of the supply chain.”
The RIT team was mentored by Bill Wynkoop ’87 (packaging science) of Lazer Inc. and Lesley Bates ’89 (packaging science) of Diamond Packaging. Both are adjunct professors in packaging science.
For more information, visit the Paperboard Packaging Alliance website.
Dennis Bacchetta
The winning entry, titled "Build Innovation", was designed by Jennifer Farrin (senior), David Lickstein (senior), and Robin Matusik (senior).
The structure was constructed with a push-out tray and windowed sleeve that features the "Build Innovation" message when closed, and reveals the PPA website address as the tray is pushed out of the sleeve. The tray top opens to reveal 10 slotted "building" cards that describe paperboard attributes such as "renewable", "promote", "protect", "versatile", and "recycle."
“Paperboard is versatile material coming from renewable and recycled resources and serving markets from pharmaceuticals/healthcare to software, candy to cosmetics, and beverages to food,” said Deanna Jacobs, RIT professor of packaging science. “Creative uses of material will ultimately save resources and energy and continue to meet the demands of the supply chain.”
The RIT team was mentored by Bill Wynkoop ’87 (packaging science) of Lazer Inc. and Lesley Bates ’89 (packaging science) of Diamond Packaging. Both are adjunct professors in packaging science.
For more information, visit the Paperboard Packaging Alliance website.
Dennis Bacchetta
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