Specialist Drinkware Printing, Done Properly
The Glass Printery was built on traditional screen printing methods adapted specifically for glass and ceramic drinkware. Every production run is managed with precision, from artwork preparation through to kiln firing.
We are not a catalogue-based promotional supplier. We are manufacturers.
Our focus is simple: produce custom printed drinkware that performs in real hospitality environments and maintains brand clarity over time.
11+
Years In Business
33+
Years of Industry Experience
1200+
NZ Businesses Served
7500+
Orders Completed
Kiln-Fired for Commercial Durability
All commercial glassware and ceramic printing is kiln fired at high temperatures so the ink permanently bonds to the surface.
This process ensures:
-
Resistance to commercial dishwashing
-
Long-term colour integrity
-
Reduced fading or wear
-
Consistency across repeat orders
Unlike surface-applied promotional drinkware, kiln-fired printing becomes part of the glass or ceramic itself.
For hospitality venues, breweries and corporate clients, durability is not optional, it is essential.
%20--%20JPG.webp)
OUR Printing Process
Every order moves through a controlled production sequence designed specifically for glass and ceramic drinkware. From artwork refinement through to final kiln curing, each stage is managed to ensure accuracy, durability and repeat consistency.
We select the appropriate method based on glass shape, artwork complexity and end-use requirements.
01
Artwork Preparation & Colour Separation
Each project begins with technical artwork refinement. Designs are adjusted to suit curved drinkware surfaces, viewing angles and placement relative to pour lines or lip clearance.
For multi-colour prints, each colour is separated individually to allow precise registration during production. Final artwork is output to high-resolution transparencies used in the screen exposure process.
We provide digital proofing to you to review so that you can confirm you're happy with how your print will come out.
02
Screen Coating & Preparation
A precision mesh screen is coated with a light-sensitive emulsion using a controlled coating process to ensure even coverage and correct stencil thickness.
Screens are then dried in a controlled dark environment to stabilise the emulsion before exposure. Mesh selection and coating depth are determined based on ink system, substrate and required ink deposit.
03
UV Exposure & Stencil Creation
The prepared transparency is positioned onto the coated screen and exposed to a calibrated UV light source.
The UV light hardens the emulsion around the design, while the covered areas remain soft. This exposure stage determines edge sharpness, detail clarity and long-term stencil durability.
04
Washout & Screen Development
After exposure, the screen is washed with controlled water pressure to remove the unexposed emulsion. This process creates a clean stencil within the mesh, allowing ink to pass only through the intended design areas.
Once dried and inspected, the screen is ready for production setup.
05
Print Application & Method Selection
Depending on glass shape and design complexity, we utilise direct cylinder printing for cylindrical drinkware or decal transfer methods produced via flatbed printing for more complex formats.
Multi-colour designs are printed in sequence with precise registration control to maintain alignment across the full run.
Our direct cylinder printer has been hand-engineered to leverage traditional screen-printing techniques using modern technologies. This allows us to utilise our direct cylinder printer to print on unique drinkware shapes.
06
Kiln Firing & Permanent Bonding
Following print application, products are fired at high temperatures to permanently bond the print to the glass or ceramic surface.
This kiln-firing stage ensures resistance to scratching, fading and commercial dishwashing, completing the manufacturing process.
We have developed custom kiln schedules for different glassware and ceramic types. For ceramics, this process burns the print into the glaze, creating a fully dishwasher-safe and highly durable finish.
For glassware, controlled heat softens the surface of the glass, allowing the ink to fuse within it rather than sit on top.
Kiln firing is a precision-driven process. Temperature curves, ramp speeds and cooling cycles must be carefully managed to prevent distortion, colour shift or glaze reaction. Our schedules have been refined over years of testing across thousands of glass profiles to ensure consistent durability and finish quality.
Why Trust The Glass Printery?
Quality Control & Repeat Accuracy
Each production run is monitored for colour density, alignment and surface finish. Screen specifications and artwork files are retained to ensure repeat consistency.
Measured Pour Line Capability
We print calibrated pour lines aligned to specific glass profiles, supporting accurate service and stock control in hospitality environments.
Substrate Expertise
Different glass and ceramic types respond differently to heat. Our kiln schedules are tailored to suit each substrate, protecting finish and structural integrity.
Manufactured in New Zealand
Local production allows us to maintain quality control, reduce lead times and support NZ businesses directly.
Ready to Print with Confidence?
If you’re looking for glassware or ceramics that hold up in real hospitality environments, we’re ready to help. Send us your brief and we’ll provide clear advice, accurate timelines and a transparent quote.
The Glass Printery
Opening Hours
Mon
8:00AM - 3:30PM
Tue
8:00AM - 3:30PM
Wed
8:00AM - 3:30PM
Thu
8:00AM - 3:30PM
Fri
8:00AM - 3:30PM
Sat-Sun
Closed
Location
30C Victoria Street
Cambridge 3434
New Zealand