Posted on May 31, 2017 at 2:35 PM
5 Different Print Types
1. Digital (also known as Flat) - Digital printing is currently the most common, most cost-effective, and simplest printing method available. It's pretty similar to the laser printer you have at work, except that most industrial digital printers would take up your entire desk. Digital printers use a combination of inks and toners to lay down smooth, rich color on a variety of papers.
2. Letterpress - Letterpress printing calls back to the first printing presses: it uses metal plates to press the ink onto the paper. The process leaves an impression behind, giving anything printed with letterpress an awesome texture. Plus, letterpress printing requires thick, pliable paper which adds a tactile element to the invite. Cotton paper is the most primary choice among letterpress printers. It's is softer that wood pulp papers ("typical" paper) and as a result feels almost ...friendlier. Each metal plate is designed for only one ink at a time, which means, the cards essentially have to be printed once for each color.
3. Foil - Foil is a great way to add some pizazz to any stationery. Usually available in a few different colors, foil adds class and brightens up the design. It catches the light in a way ink doesn't. Foil is usually applied the same way as letterpress, using a metal plate to press the foil into the paper with an adhesive agent.
4. Thermography - Thermography is a modern mix between engraving and spot color. Thermography uses heat to essentially "melt" ink and glue onto the paper, similar to craft embossing. The finished product is shiny, like plastic. The colors are usually limited, but if you want the raised texture with color, thermography is your best bet.
5. Laser Cut - If you really want to make an impression, you can get your invitations laser cut. This technique uses no ink, but instead cuts away paper to create the design and the words. Intricate laser cutting looks like lace and makes a big first impression!