Scatter print repeats your design across the tissue and cuts each sheet at a random point, so the logo position varies. Spot print places one design in a fixed position, so every sheet looks identical. Choose scatter for all-over patterns and spot for a single centered logo.
The choice between scatter and spot print decides how your logo lands on every sheet of branded tissue. It also affects artwork setup and cost. This guide explains both methods, when each works best, and how they pair with flexographic and digital printing, so you order the right one the first time.
What Is Scatter Print Tissue Paper?
Scatter print is a repeating pattern printed across a continuous web of tissue, then cut into sheets at random points. Because the cut falls anywhere in the pattern, the logo sits in a different spot on each sheet.
Scatter print reads as an all-over design. A small logo or icon repeats edge to edge, so the brand shows no matter how the sheet is folded or crumpled. This forgiving layout hides fold lines and suits void fill, gift wrapping, and any use where the tissue bunches. It is the most common style for branded tissue.
What Is Spot Print Tissue Paper?
Spot print, also called placement print, prints one design in a fixed position on every sheet. Each sheet comes out identical, with the logo in the same place every time.
Spot print gives control. A single centered logo lands in the exact same spot on each sheet, which suits a clean, deliberate presentation where the tissue is laid flat or folded the same way each time. It works best when the logo is meant to be seen as a single mark rather than a repeating pattern.
Scatter Print vs Spot Print: Which Should You Choose?
Choose scatter print for an all-over logo or pattern that reads from any angle, and spot print for a single logo in a controlled, repeatable position. The table compares the two on layout, best use, and how the logo appears.
| Feature | Scatter Print | Spot Print |
|---|---|---|
| Layout | Repeating pattern across the sheet | One design in a fixed position |
| Each sheet | Logo position varies | Every sheet identical |
| Best for | All-over branding, void fill | Single centered logo |
| Fold lines | Hidden by the pattern | More visible |
How Do Scatter and Spot Print Work With Flexographic and Digital Printing?
Both scatter and spot print run on flexographic and digital presses. Flexographic suits 1 to 6 solid colors at volume, while digital suits full-color artwork at lower volume.
The print style and the print method are separate choices. Decide the layout first, scatter or spot, then the method by color count and quantity. A repeating one-color logo often runs scatter on a flexographic press. A full-color placement design often runs spot on a digital press. See our custom tissue paper range for both options.
What Do You Need to Supply for Each?
Artwork setup differs by style:
- For scatter print, supply a tile that joins edge to edge, so the pattern repeats without seams.
- For spot print, supply the design at its final size and placement on the sheet.
- For both, supply vector files in PDF, AI, or EPS, or raster files at 300 DPI.
- Mark any white or metallic ink, since these print as separate passes.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between scatter and spot print tissue paper?
Scatter print repeats a pattern and cuts each sheet at a random point, so logo position varies. Spot print places one design in a fixed position, so every sheet is identical.
Which is better, scatter or spot print?
Scatter is better for all-over branding and hiding fold lines. Spot is better for a single centered logo in a controlled position. Choose by the look you want.
Does scatter print cost more than spot print?
Cost depends more on color count and quantity than on style. Both run on flexographic and digital presses at similar rates for the same colors and volume.
Can I use a full-color logo with scatter print?
Yes. A full-color scatter pattern runs on a digital press. Flexographic scatter suits 1 to 6 solid Pantone colors.
Which print style hides fold lines best?
Scatter print hides fold lines best, because the repeating pattern reads the same no matter where the sheet folds or crumples.
Print Your Tissue the Right Way
The right print style makes your logo land the way you intend on every sheet. Explore custom tissue paper in white, kraft, colored, recycled, and metallic, printed scatter or spot in flexographic or digital, shipped free across the US by Custom Printed Papers.