The differences between engraved pens and printed pens

Custom logo pens are generally available from most major pen manufacturers and are an effective branding and advertising tool. Personalized pens are also very popular as corporate gifts and at important events such as weddings and reunions. These types of printed and engraved pens can carry a logo or message on the body of the pen and are available in a wide range of colours, fonts and styles.

There are 2 methods of getting logos, text or illustrations on promotional pens: printing and engraving. Printing, also called screen printing or screen printing, uses a stencil to transfer ink directly to the body of the pen. An extremely versatile and relatively inexpensive method, screen printing is sometimes preferred over engraving pens, especially due to its ability to print on many different types of surfaces and the almost limitless choice of colours. Since there is no need to pressure print the surface of the printed item, screen printing is a perfect solution for items that are not flat, including pens and mugs.

Unlike screen printing, laser engraving does not directly apply ink to the surface. Instead, the engraving is created by beams of light from a laser equipped with a narrow-focus lens that allows for very complex and precise designs. The result of engraving is an etched or burned surface with a permanent representation of your artwork, logo or text. And since no ink is used, there’s no worry that the artwork will deteriorate over time. Since engraving does not apply ink, the resulting color of the engraved area is usually the underlying color of the pen. In general, a metal pen is preferred for laser engraving.

So is there a preferred method of getting artwork, logos, and text on your promotional products? Both printing and engraving provide exceptional quality and only differ based on what you are looking to achieve.

And the good news is that you don’t have to worry about choosing which method. Manufacturers of printed and engraved promotional pens and other specialty advertising products know which method works best with each of their products, ensuring that you always have the highest quality representation of your logo or message on your promotional pen products.