In today’s world we’re bombarded with marketing materials from brochures and catalogues to direct mail and it can be difficult to make your material stand out above the competition. Using various enhancements to your print can be one way in which to make sure your message is noticed.
Die cutting, embossing and gold foiling can help your products to stand out from the crowd. The processes can be meticulously applied in order to create refined, sophisticated looking brochures, leaflets, business cards, and flyers which will stand out and catch the attention of your audience.
Die cutting is a process adopted in a number of different industries whereby a thin material is cut into a specific shape or pattern using a cutting die. It is used to create decorative shapes for use in larger pieces, or for creating the main shape of a product by cutting the paper or card in a bespoke manner.
Die cutting utilises the three-dimensional nature of a material in order to create interesting or unique designs. Common uses for die cutting techniques include creating windows or 3D features on greetings cards, constructing unique shapes for business cards (rounded corners for example), or bringing an original design element to wedding invitations.
Embossing involves creating raised images or text in paper or card. Embossed patterns literally stand out from the page and provide a layered look and textured feel to a printed product. Embossing is achieved by applying heat and pressure with a letterpress, expanding the fibres of the card whilst subsequently ironing it in order to create a smooth finish.
Almost all types of paper can be embossed. Raising an image or text without colouring is known as blind embossing, and incorporating colours in the process is called colour register embossing. When used in conjunction with foil stamping, the process is referred to as combination stamping.
Embossing requires an additional separate stage in the production process, and is typically applied after laminating or varnishing. While embossing is often used as a design element, it can also be utilised to increase the strength and performance of paper products such as napkins and tissues.
Gold foiling is achieved by pressing foils onto stock material. The foils are dressed with an adhesive which becomes active when heated, and pressure is then applied to attach the foil to the paper or card. The process is performed using blocking and platen presses and is particularly effective when used in conjunction with embossing. It is also possible to use alternative foils, such as silver or many other colour selections, metallic or otherwise.
If you’d like to discuss how Die cutting, embossing, gold foiling or other print enhancements can make your message stand out then call us for a chat.
