This is a technique for printing on to either flat or irregular surfaces.
Using stencils, ink is applied to rubber or silicone pads, which are then used to print on to an object, such as a die-cast model.
It can follow curves, and other complex shapes. In the case of die-casts, it is used mainly on the metal parts, but is also suitable for use on plastic, and other materials.
Early diecasts either had markings, such as lettering, cast-in to the surface of the model; or used paper labels, stickers, decals, or even masked and painted markings.
A few had tinplate parts, which could be printed on to while the tinplate was flat, that were then bent or folded to shape, and applied to the model.
I am not sure when tampo or pad printing was first used on die-casts, but some time around the 1970s or 1980s. Initially, only one or two colours were used, and the markings were fairly basic.
Today, several colours can be used, and the markings can be very complex. Sometimes colours are printed on top of each other.
Even the cheapest Matchbox or Hot Wheels models now use tampo printing for chrome trim (using metallic inks), number plates, headlights, indicator lights, and other markings.
This page on tampo printing includes a very brief video showing the printing process.
What is Tampo – Also Known As Pad - Printing? (oberk.com)
Paul Adam NZ
Well explained, Paul!
ReplyDeleteMy scant knowlege of the Tampo process came from the book
Hot Wheels 35 Years of Speed, Power, Performce and Attitude
by Randy Leffingwell.
It dates Tampo on Hot Wheels toys from tests in 1973 with the first releases in 1974.
I personally didn't really become aware of the technique until Galoob released their Star Trek Micro Machines with perfect, amazingly small markings on the Enterprise saucer!
Thank you, Lewis, that information on the dates is great. That is a book I do not have, although I do have a couple of others on Hot Wheels. The standard of printing has improved greatly over the years, and some of the cheapest modern Hot Wheels or Matchbox models are better detailed than even the most expensive models of the past.
ReplyDeleteGood for delicate trek ships?
ReplyDelete