1. Foil Stamping
This elegant printing process creates metallic graphics and type that are stamped onto paper using heated, etched copper dies. Pressure is applied to transfer a this layer of foil onto paper and bond it to the surface. This pressure leaves a tactile and visual impression, which varies depending on the thickness and finish of the paper as well as the type of foil that is used.
2. Letterpress
Letterpress is a centuries-old printing technique that produces a textured and timeless result. Letterpress uses plates that are inked and pressed onto paper to transfer graphics and type, one color at a time. This technique creates a visible, tactile impression into the paper, with characteristic unevenness in ink coverage for an authentic, handcrafted look. Using thicker, softer paper, such as a double ply paper, dramatizes the look.
3. Engraving
Engraving is the most luxurious and distinctive of fine printing processes. First the design is etched onto a copper plate. Then each pice of paper is carefully hand-fed into the press and very high, intense pressure is used to impose ink onto paper, one color at a time. The resulting image is raised up from the paper for a dimensional look, leaving a gentle bruise mark visible on the backside of the cardstock. Gold and silver metallic inks look best done in engraving.
4. Blind Embossing
Using the same technique as engraving but without any ink, embossing requires a custom-etched die used under intense pressure to form a raised, three-dimensional impression on the surface of the paper. The result is a distinctive effect that is beautiful for design accents such as monograms and motifs as well as large patterns for a textured effect.
5. Digital Printing
Fast, efficient and extremely flexible. Digital printing is a great option if you are on a tight budget. It is also the fastest printing method so if you need invitations done quickly, this is a great option as well. You can also print as many colors as you would like on one single pass so if your design has many colors, this printing technique is perfect for you.
Photos taken by: FAI Print