What is gravure printing.
Gravure is a printing method that uses an engraved metal cylinder for each colour, built for long runs of film and paper. Our pouches and coffee bags are printed by gravure. This page explains how the process works, why it needs long runs, and how it compares with flexo.
The short answerGravure printing, also called rotogravure, prints from a metal cylinder engraved with tiny cells. The cells hold ink, a doctor blade wipes the surface clean, and the ink left in the cells transfers to the film or paper. Each colour needs its own cylinder.
How it works
The cylinder is steel, plated with copper, engraved with the image, then plated with chrome to protect it. Deeper or larger cells carry more ink, so they print a stronger colour.
The image sits below the surface of the cylinder. That puts gravure in the intaglio family, the opposite of flexo, where the image stands up on a raised plate.
Why gravure needs a long run
Engraving a set of cylinders costs the same for a short run as a long one. That makes gravure expensive for small orders and cheap per unit at high volume.
The cylinders last through long runs without the image wearing, and they print a wide range of tones, from fine highlights to deep solids.
Gravure and flexo compared
| Point | Gravure | Flexo |
|---|---|---|
| Image carrier | Engraved metal cylinder | Flexible raised plate |
| Setup cost | Higher | Lower |
| Common uses | Flexible packaging, pouches, film | Paper bags, corrugated boxes, envelopes, film |
| On our range | Pouches and coffee bags | SOS, food grade and compostable bags |
Our pouches print by gravure in full colour, with digital print for shorter runs, from 5,000 units. The sizes and options are on the pouches page.
Questions
What is gravure printing used for?
Long runs of printed film and flexible packaging, such as pouches and coffee bags.
What is the difference between gravure and flexo?
Gravure prints from cells engraved into a metal cylinder. Flexo prints from a raised flexible plate. Gravure costs more to set up and suits long runs of film.
What is a gravure cylinder?
A steel cylinder plated with copper, engraved with the image as tiny cells, and plated with chrome for wear. One is made for each colour.
Is rotogravure the same as gravure?
Yes. Rotogravure is the full name, from the rotating cylinder the image is engraved on.
Written by the Bag Bureau production team. Last updated October 2026.