Abstract: A method of making a photopolymer sleeve blank for use in flexographic printing is provided which includes providing a base sleeve, applying a cushion layer over the base sleeve, applying an optional barrier layer over the cushion layer, and applying a photopolymer layer over the barrier or cushion layer. The method provides a sleeve blank having an integral cushion layer and eliminates the need for a back exposure step.

Abstract: A method of making a photopolymer sleeve blank for use in flexographic printing is provided which includes providing a base sleeve, applying a cushion layer over the base sleeve which is substantially transparent to curing radiation, applying an optional barrier layer over the cushion layer, and applying a photopolymer layer over the barrier or cushion layer. The inner surface of the base sleeve is then exposed to curing radiation such that the radiation penetrates the sleeve and cushion layer to substantially cure a portion of the thickness of the photopolymer layer.

Abstract: A method of making a photopolymer sleeve blank for use in flexographic printing is provided which includes providing a base sleeve, applying a cushion layer over the base sleeve, applying an optional barrier layer over the cushion layer, and applying a photopolymer layer over the barrier or cushion layer. The method provides a sleeve blank having an integral cushion layer and eliminates the need for a back exposure step.

Abstract: A method of making a photopolymer sleeve blank is provided which includes providing a base sleeve, applying a cushion layer over the base sleeve, and applying a first photopolymer layer over the cushion layer. The exterior-facing surface of the first photopolymer layer is exposed to a curing source, followed by the application of a second, uncured photopolymer layer over the first photopolymer layer. The first photopolymer layer is preferably ground to a predetermined thickness either before or after exposure to the curing source to provide a preferred floor dimension. The resulting photopolymer sleeve blank has a uniform floor which can be readily imaged and processed by conventional equipment used in the flexographic printing industry.