Monday 28 July 2014

Create Compelling Finishes With Foil Embossing Dies

By Miranda Sweeney


Specialty finishing techniques provide a unique way of the attracting the attention of potential customers. They add a touch of class to items like certificates, book covers, presentation folders, packaging for products and stationery. Foil embossing dies can be used for this process and they can be bought from many stores today, including those online.

When an image is embossed, this means that it is raised from the surrounding areas. A die is used for this process and heat and pressure are necessary. Different quality results are produced depending on the type of die used as well as the consistency of heat and pressure applied.

Foiling is a process of applying a metallic material to an image. The range of colours and textures of such material available today is huge. The die and the item to be foiled must be positioned accurately. When the heated die presses against the image, the foil which is sandwiched between the two is pressed onto it. Sometimes when heat is applied to foils and the paper being used is coated, heat can release certain gases that cause blistering and bubbling. It may be worthwhile to do a trial run.

An image can be embossed and foiled in two separate processes, first the one and then the other. They can also be done together by using a combination die that does the foil stamping and embossing all at once. The type of design, length of the job and various other factors will determine whether one step or two are used.

The type of metal from which a die is made is also important. The type of metal chosen depends upon the intricacy of a design, the size of a job and how many times it may need reprinting. Magnesium ones are inexpensive but they are not that long lasting. If designs have intricate details, a copper die is more suitable. For particularly intricate designs a more expensive brass die may be necessary.

A die can also have different depths. The deepest ones need to have a precise bevel on the edges so as not to cut right through the paper. A die with a single level only changes the paper surface to one level. However, one that is multilevel can produce different levels. There are even those that produce many angles and curves such as a sculptured die.

The choice of paper when using specialty finishes is important as it can have an effect on the end result. A thick, heavy stock is often easiest to use. One that has long fibers is best as stretching needs to take place. Textured paper can be used as the smooth, embossed image stands out nicely from the textured surrounds. However, a densely flecked variety can draw attention away from the embossed image.

A raised three-dimensional image in color, particularly metallic color, really stands out from the competition. It is not difficult to purchase a die to suit a particular project and these can even be bought from online stores. Using the right die for the right product can produce an affordable, impressive end result.




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