Have you ever wondered how board books are made, specifically the process of board book printing? As a parent or caregiver of little ones, you’ve probably handled hundreds of these chunky, durable books meant for small hands and mouths. But what goes into creating them? The type of ink used for board book printing is critical. The ink must be highly durable and resistant to saliva and teeth marks. It must also maintain its color vibrancy through many readings to keep little readers engaged. Choosing suitable ink for board book printing is a vital part of the creation process and impacts everything from cost to quality to how long the book will last.
In this article, we’ll explore how ink choices affect board book production and why ink is such an essential factor in creating books that can withstand the wrath of toddlers and still inspire a lifelong love of reading.
Types of Inks Used in Board Book Printing
Regarding board books, the type of ink used is crucial. When it comes to printing children’s books, including board books, finding reliable children’s book printers is essential. The ink used in board book printing has to be durable and kid-friendly. The two most common options are:
Water-based inks: Made from pigments or dyes suspended in water, these inks are non-toxic and environmentally friendly. However, they can rub off quickly and bleed on some papers. For board books, they require a protective coating to prevent smudging.
UV-cured inks: Cured using ultraviolet light, these inks produce vibrant and durable colors. They contain polymers that harden into a tough finish. UV inks are more expensive but provide superior rub resistance without a coating.
Within these categories are specific types of inks suitable for board books:
- Â Plastic inks – They contain plasticizers that give them flexibility and durability. They adhere well to plastics and laminates used in board books.
- Â Low-migration inks – These unique properties prevent components from transferring to the surface below. Important for board books as inks can seep into the board material.
- Â Food-grade inks – Made from food-safe pigments and components. Required for board books as babies may chew on them.
- Â High-opacity inks – Provide rich color coverage, especially for darker shades. It prevents the board material from showing through.
By understanding the options, you can choose inks that will make visually appealing board books that withstand everything babies can throw at them. The suitable inks and high-quality board and lamination are essential for creating durable books that last through many re-reads.
Testing Inks for Safety and Sturdiness in Children’s Board Books
When producing board books for children, ink selection is crucial. The inks must be non-toxic, durable, and withstand everything kids will put them through.
Safety First
The priority is using certified, non-toxic, and safe inks for children. Standard printing inks may contain chemicals like volatile organic compounds that can be harmful, especially to young children. Look for inks approved for use in children’s products, such as those certified by the Art and Creative Materials Institute (ACMI).
Durability is Key
Board books go through a lot of wear and tear, so the inks used must withstand repeated handling, chewing, and drooling. They must be highly resistant to smudging, fading, and rubbing off. Some options include:
- Â UV-cured inks – Cured using ultraviolet light, creating a durable and water-resistant ink film.
- Â Latex inks – Water-based but become water-resistant when dry. Flexible and fade-resistant.
- Â Solvent-based inks – Made of chemical solvents and resins to create a durable ink film. Require special ventilation and drying for safety.
Testing the Limits
Put the inks through their paces to ensure they can stand up to anything a child can dish out:
- Â Rub tests – Vigorously rub the print with your fingers to check for smudging and ink transfer.
- Â Bend and fold tests – Bend and crease the pages to check for cracking or flaking.
- Â Teething tests – Have children chew, saliva, and drool on the pages to check for damage.
- Â Chemical resistance – Expose to common household chemicals like hand sanitizers to check for fading or discoloration.
By selecting certified non-toxic inks and thoroughly testing them for durability in the context of custom hardcover book printing, board book publishers can ensure their products will be safe, sturdy, and withstand years of use and abuse from children. The results are books parents and kids can enjoy confidently and for generations.
Conclusion
So there you have it, an inside look at how ink factors into creating board books. The next time you pick up one of those chunky little books with your toddler, you’ll have an appreciation for the careful balancing act required to make them durable yet still visually appealing. More goes into creating these early reading experiences than you probably realized. But that’s the magic of books. They transport us to different times and places, spark our imagination, and create memories that last well beyond the final page. Even board books, with their simple words and pictures, can inspire a lifelong love of reading.
