Foil stamping and embossing are unique printing processes using dies which we create from your design. In foil stamping, the die is heated in a press to around 250 degrees Fahrenheit and then cycled under tons of pressure, transferring a foil color from a roll onto the paper selected. This process is also called "hot stamping" or "gold stamping".
Embossed images are made in a similar fashion, except the die consists of two parts (a "male" and "female"). When these parts mate under heat and pressure, paper fibers are reformed to create the image in the embossing die. Images that are embossed into paper without any color added are called "blind embossing". When foilstamped images are lifted with embossing, the image then becomes "foil embossed".
Other options are available, such as debossing (when an image is depressed into the paper, the opposite of embossing), and multi-level or sculptured embossing (used to create a three-dimensional look in designs that contain a lot of detail).
When choosing a folder, consider these guidelines...
How much material will go into your folder?
For just a few inserts, many firms find that a single-pocket folder will do. For multiple pages, a two-pocket folder works best. If your documents are bulky or thick, you may want to consider our extra-capacity folder styles.
Which process might look best?
Foil Stamping adds a distinctive, elegant look to a folder, and, due to its reflectance, commands more attention than ordinary, printed pieces. For best results, try to avoid small (less than 10 point) type, it may tend to fill in. Though shiny foils have the most visual impact, satin shades are often easier to read, especially with smaller-size copy.
Embossing
adds a more subtle touch of class, prompting one
to want to touch it as well. Try to lean towards bold, thick
copy and broad designs; they enable us to obtain the most
"lift", enhancing visual impact. We also recommend choosing
a type style without serifs, as type that is too fine or small
may be difficult to read.
You can also combine foil stamping and embossing together, or have one part of your design foil stamp and another part emboss. For free, no-obligation advice, just call our HelpDesk at (888) 610-0380, 9am-5pm Eastern time.
© 1998-2010, FolderSource Corporation
How does FolderSource differ from other suppliers?
Almost all vendors are distributors for presentation folders, not manufacturers. And almost all manufacturers will only sell their products through distributors (such as printers or printing brokers). To make a profit, distributors must add a mark-up, which can be 15, 25, even 40% or more! In these difficult times, why pay a middleman to place an order for you? Since we manufacture your folders in-house and ship them direct, you can pocket those costly markups! In addition to saving money, our direct-link approach can save time, too. Give us a try on your next order!
