Craving
an extra pop of something that will make your artwork stand out?! Perhaps you
are stuck with wanting more, but not knowing how to achieve it. Let me introduce you to the special print
finishes, or post-print effects, that you didn’t know you needed!
1. Die
Cutting
Think
of die cutting as a cookie cutter in any shape that you choose for your
art. This is the process that is used
for rounded corners, and can be used to cut out just about any shape! The
process begins with a custom die that is created based on your requested shape
and is then attached to a die-cutting machine.
The printed item is then placed in the machine, and the die is pressed
onto the item to cut out the shape! This
finish is most commonly used for business cards, invitations, greeting cards,
and even notecards.
2. Emboss/Deboss
Embossing
and debossing are similar in the sense that they both include the process of
stamping a printed piece between a metal plate and a counter. Embossing created a raised impression on the
paper, giving it a 3D effect, while debossing does the opposite, creating a
pushed in depression in the paper. These finished are often used with book
covers, pocket folders, business cards, and greeting cards, and debossing can
also be used to imprint promotional products like journals or padfolios!
3. Spot
Gloss
Spot
gloss can be seen as a way to enhance the existing colors in your design. Add spot gloss over certain areas of your
artwork, like your logo, to give it a glossy finish that will pop from the page
and stand separate from the other elements, which remain uncoated. Consider spot glossing your next round of
business cards or notecards!
4. Foil
Stamping
Make
your art SPARLE and SHINE with a foil finish! This process applies a metallic
foil to your printed item by using a heated die placed into a foil stamping
machine. This finish works great when
used with invitations, cards, or even business cards too!
Try
out one of these special finishes in your next printed project to WOW whoever
it comes across and to surely leave your audience with something they’ll never
forget!
