Specialty Printing

Foil Stamping

The process of foil stamping is similar to letterpress printing, in that an image is transferred to the paper by way of a custom-made die. However, rather than ink, a very thin layer of metal is applied to the paper. In order to achieve this, the heated metal die, combined with extreme pressure, causes the foil to adhere to the paper. Although this process is a bit more labor intensive than conventional printing, the results can be stunning!

Our press operators take great pride in their craft. With experience comes knowledge, and they will happily make recommendations regarding the best foil for your paper choice. For a distinct visual impact that literally shines, consider integrating a foil stamp into your next design.

What style of artwork works best for foil stamping?

All artwork to be foil-stamped must be submitted as vector artwork built in Adobe Illustrator or InDesign. Keep in mind that your artwork should contain solid areas only. That is, like letterpress printing, screen tints are off limits. In most cases, large solids up to 6 inches or so will foil stamp just fine. Lines should be 0.5 point or thicker, and try to keep your type no smaller than 8 point. Note that foil stamping tends to make small type look a bit bolder, so loosen up the tracking on small type as much as possible to keep it from filling in. If you're not sure about your artwork and how well it will foil stamp, feel free to send it to us and we'll be happy to take a look.

Do certain papers receive foil better than others?

Yes, some papers do work better for foil stamping than others. Also, foils from different manufacturers might behave differently on the very same paper. With so many different papers and foils available, the best approach is to give us a call and tell us what you have in mind. We'll help you find the best possible combination of paper and foil.

Press Specs for Foil Stamping

Max. Sheet Size: 22 x 30
Max. Print Size: 20 x 28

Do certain substrates die-cut better than others?

We can die-cut a wide range of papers, from lighter text weights, all the way up to heavy blotter papers used for coasters.

Can you die-cut any size and shape? How do I know if my artwork will work?

The maximum possible size of a die-cut will vary from press to press. As far as artwork, very small or complex shapes may not be possible with conventional die-cutting. So for questions regarding size and shape, your best bet is to send us your file. We will happily take a look and offer you our suggestions.

Press Specs for Die-cutting

Max. Sheet Size: 28 x 41
Max. Print Size: 24 x 38

Embossing & Debossing

Consider adding a beautiful accent to your next design by including an emboss or a deboss. Embossing uses a metal die, heat and pressure to create a raised shape in the paper. Debossing gives the opposite effect, by pushing the shape down into the paper. Embossing and debossing are typically the final steps in the printing process, and are usually registered to print or foil. However, this is not always the case. A blind emboss (no ink or foil) can easily stand on its own, for a truly elegant appearance.

Do certain papers emboss and deboss better than others?

Yes, although lighter weight papers can certainly be used, a nice, heavy stock will provide the most striking effect.

What types of artwork work best for embossing and debossing?

Clean, simple artwork with consistent line weights will emboss and deboss nicely. For even more effect, a sculptured emboss can be created to vary the depth of impression based on the artwork. Provide it to us as a vector file, created in either Adobe Illustrator or InDesign. When creating your design, keep in mind that in most cases, the impressed or depressed area may also appear on the back of the sheet.

Press Specs for Embossing & Debossing

Max. Sheet Size: 28 x 41
Max. Print Size: 24 x 38