The Best In-Mold Labeling Articles to Prepare for 2023

November 21, 2022 • Posted in Events

Now that the end of 2022 is approaching and a new year is on the horizon, have you started thinking about your in-mold labeling (IML) needs for the months ahead? Whether you have a brand new product hitting the market or you’re updating last year’s model, there’s a lot to think about in terms of part testing, color, durability, cost, timeline — the works!

As your manufacturing and design teams prepare for 2023 production (and even 2024 designs), here are our top-visited articles about bringing your IML visions to life.

rebrand iml parts

If you’re planning a rebrand…

A rebrand can be both exciting and stressful. As you think about how your business’s brand and products will be perceived moving forward, it’s helpful to think of the aesthetics that will support your message. High-quality, high-end printed parts can make all the difference. Will you target an older demographic with rich wood-grain FESP panels? Or delight your younger customers with piano-black glossy silhouettes?

If you’re bringing a new product to the market…

Maybe you’re introducing new curves, or subtle angles, or another kind of modern take on design. It can be helpful to know what’s possible in the world of IML, as well as the durability of parts created using 3-D technology. We’re able to create curves, bends, arches, circles and swooshes like never before, lending your part a superior artistic edge. Likewise, we can use a technique called two shot molding to create a single part with transparent elements.

sanwa IML tooling

If you’re new to IML…

If you don’t yet have experience working with an IML part producer, these articles will help set the stage. Learn about the steps it takes to get your IML part created, and what to expect for timelines depending on your design, testing and production specifications. Or start at the very beginning to answer the core question: “What is in-mold labeling, anyway?”

These are great articles to refer to for anyone working on your tier one, two or three manufacturing teams.

What’s the Difference Between In-Mold Labeling & Decorating?

What It Takes to Get Your IML Part Created [Timeline]

IML Product Testing: How It Works

If you’re interested in alternative materials…

We are able to print with some alternative IML materials, and also mimic the look and even feel of lots of non-plastic materials. During the pandemic, a shortage of resin has prompted our industry to get flexible with alternative resins and adhesives. We recommend reading the article below for a deep-dive! And when it comes to mimicking wood grain, leather, chrome, stone and more, we’re able to create plastic parts that look like the real thing while taking advantage of benefits like durability and lighter weight.

Contact Us

At Sanwa Screen USA, we pride ourselves on offering high-quality in-mold labeling and printing services for over 35 years. Our team of designers, testers, researchers, and manufacturing managers can help answer your questions to get you ahead of the game — and ahead of the busy new year. We provide world-class services and consistent delivery in a broad range of industries, so contact us if you’d like to start a conversation about your production needs in 2023 and beyond.