There are a variety of specialised techniques when it comes to printing, from die-cutting services to embossing. If you are interested in the design, print and branding, it is important to understand the multitude of options that are available to you.
Let’s take a look at these creative techniques and delve into how they can work for your print marketing campaign.
Die-Cutting Services
Die-cutting is a great way to add depth to your printed material. The technique involves cutting paper into a chosen shape, using what is known as a steel cutting die. This can be used to punch out patterns and decorative shapes to incorporate within your print.
Die-cutting allows for creativity in your print marketing. A smart way to guarantee a unique and memorable business card is to make use of the die-cutting process. Elements of your card can be strategically and creatively cut out to catch the eye of your customer/potential customer, from intricately rounded edges to out-of-the-box cut outs.
Embossing and Debossing Services
Embossing and debossing is the process of creating either recessed or raised images and designs in paper and other materials. An embossed design is raised against the background of the material while a debossed design is sunken into the surface of the paper.
Both of these specialised processes involve a metal plate and a counter. The metal plate is mounted on a press while the paper is stamped between the plate and the counter. It is this force that pushes the stick into the plate, resulting in the impression.
Embossing is a specialised mechanical process that has the power to manipulate paper, and this will of course, affect your design. Make sure that you work with an experienced graphic designer and printing company that understands this process and ultimately creates a design that will translate effectively once printed.
Again, it is important to work with an experienced graphic designer who understands the ins and outs of embossing/debossing. They will set your font/type with more space between the letters than would usually be there. If you place your letters too closely in your design, they can merge and this will ruin the design aesthetic once printed.
Lamination/Silk Lamination Services
Lamination is a liquid that dries the paper stock, making it a tough gloss or giving it a dry surface. Whether glossy or dry, lamination protects the surface of the card-stock effectively.
Silk lamination gives paper a soft finish, is tear resistant and water resistant, and compliments colourful designs. Silk lamination is popular in business card design and business card printing as it promises durability.
Traditionally, cards will be printed in full colour and then the paper stock is coated with a weather resistant, durable, silk laminate finish. This process ensures a resilient business card, promising longevity and with longevity comes ROI.
Varnish Services
Varnish refers to a liquid coating that is applied to a printed material. This process adds a glossy, matte, satin or neutral finish to the paper stock. There are many types of varnishes available.
- Gloss Varnishing: This gives your printed material a glossy sheen.
- Matte Varnishing: This gives the printed surface a smooth, non-glossy aesthetic.
- UV Varnishing: Ultraviolet (UV) varnishing achieves an even more eye-catching coating to your printed material, giving it a professional appeal.
- Spot UV Varnishing: A spot varnish is applied to specific areas of the printed material. This highlights certain areas and draws the eye to particular parts of the design.
Letterpress Services
Letterpress is actually the oldest printing process. In this printing method, a surface made up of raised letters is inked and then pressed onto the surface of the print material, reproducing the image in reverse.
Letterpress printing is most commonly used on wedding invitations but is also quickly becoming popular in business card design.
Professional Graphic Design and Printing Company South Africa
If you are looking to create a stand-out print marketing campaign using the top print techniques, speak to the Jetline printing and branding experts. We will guide you on the process to printing perfection, providing you with the ultimate end-result.
Contact your closest Jetline branch today!
