Workshop
Introduction to Plastics Decorating Technologies
On Demand Available on August 13, 2025
Summary
Plastic Decorating and Coating can be a complex and confusing set of often unrelated technologies. As such, plastic decorating is much more involved than just achieving a desired appearance and choices can have significant impact on business outcomes.
SPE's workshop, Introduction to Plastic Decorating Technologies, hosted by the SPE Decorating and Coatings Division, is designed to introduce all of the major decorating technologies and enable you to choose the best for your application. Current issues with recycling, regulation and innovations will also be presented. Choosing the correct technology and understanding its limits and is of great importance is achieving success. This workshop is designed for plastics manufactures, manufacturing engineers, and product designers and enables them to make informed decisions and effective design choices. The content can also benefit purchasing, procurement, and marketing teams.
Topics will include: Painting and Coating, Silk Screen Printing, Pad Printing, Thermal Transfers, Inkjet Printing, Plastic Plating, Laser Marking and others.
What You’ll Learn:
- The basics of how primary plastic decorating technologies work and provide information on advantages, disadvantages and range of capabilities for each. What applications they work best and how to implement them.
- Issues with the circular economy and regulations which impact plastic decoration.
- New technologies like decorating additive manufactured parts, packaging options, and structural color will be introduced.
- How to measure the appearance and durability of decorated parts.
Who Should Purchase On Demand?
- Plastics manufacturers
- Manufacturing engineers
- Product designers
- Procurement and purchasing teams
- Marketing and brand managers seeking insight into visual identity and material performance
Why Should You Purchase On Demand?
Are you struggling to navigate the complexities of plastic decorating and coating technologies, unsure of which process is best for your needs?
Do you find it difficult to keep up with ever-changing regulations and industry demands for sustainability?
Are you looking for a clear understanding of the latest technologies and how they can improve your product design and manufacturing process?
If you’ve asked yourself these questions, this on demand workshop is designed for you.
Everyday Problems You’ll Address:
- How can I select the right decorating technology for my product without compromising quality or cost?
- Why is it so difficult to balance recyclability and regulatory requirements with effective plastic decoration?
- What are the latest innovations in decorating technologies, and how can they improve my processes?
- How do I make better-informed decisions when it comes to decorating methods for new materials like additive manufactured parts?
- What technologies will help improve the appearance and durability of decorated parts?
Why This Workshop Matters:
Plastic decorating isn’t just about making products look good—it’s about achieving the best possible functional outcomes while addressing sustainability and regulatory challenges. Whether you're a manufacturer, engineer, designer, or involved in procurement, this workshop will equip you with the knowledge and tools to make more effective decorating choices, stay ahead of industry trends, and navigate complex regulations.
