Custom-Printed Mylar Bags: Direct Print vs Labeled Mylar Bags

by | Feb 15, 2021 | Cannabis Packaging Design, Custom Mylar Bags | 0 comments

We often get questions about custom-printed Mylar bags and how they’re produced. There tends to be confusion about direct printed vs a blank Mylar bag with labeled stickers.

However, your printing options with Mylar bags go even further than this. Throughout this article, we’ll explore how you can print on custom Mylar bags.

Most Popular Ways to Print on Mylar Bags

Direct Printing

Through specialized flexographic or digital print equipment, you can directly print on Mylar bags. This method is best for high-quality graphics and detailed images.

However, for this method, you’ll need a combination of pouching machines and custom Mylar bag printing machines. These machines are designed with specialized inks that can print directly to Mylar film or other barrier films. As a result, you receive a resilient and enduring print.

If your products require barcodes and other specific product information, direct printing is best for Mylar bags. On top of that, it’s the quickest and most efficient way to print for wholesale supplies.

Naturally, these printing machines can be costly and most small businesses don’t have the extra capital for such. In such cases, you can always source your custom Mylar bag printing through a third-party.

Thermal Transfer Printing

Thermal transfer printing is a technique that applies heat to transfer ink from a ribbon and onto the surface of a Mylar bag. Most brands incorporate this to print text and simple designs.

That said, this is a good option for variable information (i.e. lot numbers and expiration dates). It’s most commonly found in the food and medical industries, where it’s important to ensure this information lasts a long time and doesn’t smudge with age.

Labeling

If you’re a small business, you may want to simply label Mylar bags yourself. You can print a label using your standard household printer, then directly apply it to a Mylar bag.

Similarly to the above methods, labels can be fully customized to provide customers with:

However, these labels tend to be lower-quality than that found on custom direct print Mylar bags. On top of that, labels can be easily removed and replaced. This makes them a subpar choice when it comes to longevity.

Handwriting

Another option for small businesses, handwriting is the most cost-effective solution on our list. Simply put, you can write the content of a product directly on the Mylar bag. Most brands use a permanent marker or ballpoint pen to ensure longevity.

However, handwriting is not an ideal option for most businesses. This makes it difficult to ensure that all the required legal information is on a product. Furthermore, it’s a time-consuming process which can result in content that’s difficult for customer’s to read.

Which is Our Favorite Printing Option?

When it comes to custom Mylar bags, it’s hard not to love direct print. There are simply too many options here, from (but not limited to):

On top of that, direct print offers the most cost-effective solution while maintaining a professional look.

Here at Custom 420, we have ASTM-certified child-resistant bags, required in all legal states. We encourage our customers to move forward sustainably and compliantly as laws continually change.

Decide on direct printed Mylar vs labeled Mylar bags? Whichever type you need, we have you covered! Drop us a line on our contact page to learn more!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I print on a Mylar bag?

Yes, you can print on Mylar bags through the methods of direct printing, thermal transfer printing, labeling, and handwriting.

Can you write on Mylar bags?

Yes, you can write directly on Mylar bags. However, for legal cannabis businesses, this is not an effective option to ensure label compliance.

Are Mylar bags FDA-approved?

Yes! All of our Mylar bags are made from FDA-approved food-grade materials. This is because they’re made with tear- and puncture-resistant material, ensuring protection against moisture, oxygen, light, and other contaminants.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the most popular finish for custom cannabis packaging right now?

Matte and soft-touch lamination are currently the most popular finishes in premium cannabis packaging. Many brands combine these finishes with foil stamping and spot UV accents to create a luxury appearance. 

Can I combine multiple finishes on one cannabis package?

Yes. Many successful cannabis brands combine finishes such as matte lamination, foil stamping, and spot UV to create visual depth and premium shelf appeal. 

Do custom mylar bags come with certified child-resistant closures?

Yes. Quality suppliers offer certified child-resistant zipper options that meet industry and state compliance requirements. 

What is the minimum order quantity for custom cannabis packaging?

Minimum order quantities vary depending on packaging type, printing method, and finishing requirements. Simpler designs may allow lower minimums, while specialty finishes typically require larger production runs. 

How does custom cannabis packaging help with compliance?

Professional cannabis packaging integrates compliance requirements directly into the design, including child-resistant features, warning labels, product information areas, and tamper-evident functionality, helping brands meet regulatory standards while maintaining strong visual appeal.