Custom CD printing is necessary for companies that want specialized information printed on a large quantity of CDs for distribution. While businesses that specialize in printing will often have their own CD printer, most businesses rely on professional CD printing services. CD printing is necessary when a large number of CDs are going to be sold or distributed, because a hand labeled CD will not leave the right impression.

With custom CD printing, businesses and individuals can leave the right impression. CD printing is a method of labeling compact discs so they can be easily identified. Custom CD printing also makes the CDs more attractive, which is a great advantage for musicians who want to release their own compact discs without a record label.

Artists can turn to professional CD printing services to print full color, high-resolution graphics onto compact discs. CD printing services use an offset printer or CD silkscreening device. Offset CD printing is better for producing clear and small fonts, while CD silkscreening can produce up to six PMS colors, or CMYK process printing. Since most musicians or small businesses do not have their own CD printer, they must rely on CD printing services to undertake the task. CD printing services usually require original artwork within specific guidelines, but for an extra fee custom CD printing graphic artists can design the artwork. For offset CD printing, once the custom CD printing artwork is submitted, plates are made. In offset CD printing, process colors are used, which are cyan, magenta, yellow, and black.

Combinations of these primary colors will make other colors needed. Each color in the CD printing process uses a separate plate. Ink is applied on the plates with the help of rollers, and the plates transfer the ink onto a rubber blanket that places ink on the disc to facilitate printing. Offset CD printing is not easily available for low disc quantities, and CD silkscreening is often a less expensive option. CD silkscreening can be used to produce most CD artwork designs. Computer data and movies can be duplicated onto a compact disc and then CD silk-screening is done.

Custom CD printing with an offset CD printer is best for large jobs. Companies who need to create compact discs for marketing, training or presentations can get a very professional looking stock of discs with CD printing services. Musicians can also create discs that look like they came from a record label with professional CD printing services. Anyone who doesn't have a CD printer of their own but wants a professional-looking set of compact discs to distribute should know about the valuable resources at their fingertips. It's not necessary for a business or individual to have their own CD printer. There are CD printing services that can do the work for them, whether it is a small batch or huge order of compact discs that are required.