In the world of promotional products, the humble pen reigns supreme. In fact, pens are among the most widely recognised and effective promotional items. Promotional pens are practical, offer a low cost per unit, come in a vast array of styles, and are suitable for virtually every industry and brand. So, what makes a *great* promotional pen, and how do you choose the right one for your brand?
This comprehensive guide will provide you with all the information you need to know about promotional pens.
Types of Pens Available
Ballpoint Pens
When it comes to promotional pens, ballpoint pens take the lead. They utilise oil-based ink that flows over a metal ball, which then transfers the ink onto the writing surface. With a click or twist mechanism, ballpoint pens ensure the ink won’t dry out easily.
Stylus Pens
Stylus pens are designed with a stylus tip or capabilities, making them ideal for use on touch screen devices like tablets or mobile phones. They usually incorporate a ballpoint writing mechanism and are available in both plastic and metal options.
Gel Pens
Gel pens use a water-based gel with suspended pigments, allowing for vibrant and precise ink. However, these inks may skip occasionally, and they take longer to dry.
Rollerball Pens
Rollerball pens also rely on a ball to apply ink, but the ink itself is water-based. This results in a smoother writing experience, although the ink tends to dry out more quickly. Rollerball pens often come with a separate cap for protection.
Markers
Marker pens employ a compressed soft tip to apply ink. These pens often feature permanent ink and can be used on various surfaces, including glass, wood, plastic, and metal.
Highlighters
Highlighter pens typically feature a felt tip or wax and offer vivid ink colours. They dry quickly and can be used to effectively highlight important sections of text or notes without obscuring the underlying content.
Pen Branding Options
Wondering how your logo can be added to a promotional pen and where? This is a common question among customers embarking on their first promotional pen campaign.
Digital Print (Full-Colour Print)
Digital printing involves transferring ink directly from the print heads of an inkjet machine onto the pen, resulting in a high-quality, vibrant image. This method can be used on flat or slightly curved surfaces. Digital printing is available for select plastic and metal pen styles.
Pad Print
Pad printing utilises a silicone pad to transfer an image from a laser-etched printing plate onto the pen’s surface. It works exceptionally well on pens due to its ability to conform to curved surfaces, and it is a cost-effective branding option. Pad printing is available for both metal and plastic pens.
Laser Engraving
Laser engraving offers a permanent branding solution by engraving artwork onto the metal surface using a laser. This method ensures that the branding will never wear off and provides a high perceived value at an affordable price. Laser engraving is exclusively available for metal pens and is a favourite of ours at Impression.
A promotional pen is often the first item that comes to mind when considering promotional products, and for good reason. While promotional pens can vary in several ways, understanding ink capacity, colour, and style will help you find an excellent option for promoting your brand. And there’s no better time to order a pen than during PEN-ANZA month. Explore our extensive range of promotional pens on our website or reach out to our team directly for any inquiries or to kick-start the process of creating custom pens or other promotional products for your business today.
