Printing process
Digital
This flat printing method is achieved by laying down a screen of coloured dots (known as CMYK, for the four colours from which all colours are composed: Cyan, Magenta, Yellow and Black). Digital Printing is a less expensive option for multiple-colour printing and is a cost effective solution for small runs of stationery. It has a smooth flat crisp finish. It works well with smooth matt paper types.
Flat Printing
The most common form of printing today alongside digital printing. Traditionally know as lithographing printing. The process capitalises on the fact that grease and water do not mix so that the text is chemically treated to be receptive to ink and repel water. The product is a smooth print with a quality crisp finish. This method of print works well with both textured and smooth paper stocks.
Thermography
Creates a raised impression without the more expensive engraving dies. The thermography method uses special slow-drying inks that are dusted with a powdery substance. The paper is then passed under a heater, which causes the printed impression to swell, giving it a raised appearance. Thermography is also suitable for heavy weight correspondence cards and invitations.
Letterpress
Probably the oldest method of printing, produced from cast metal type or plates on which the image or printing areas are raised above the non-printing areas of the plate. Ink touches only the top surface of the raised areas; the surrounding (non-printing) areas are lower and do not receive ink. The inked image is transferred directly into the paper. Sometimes a slight embossing appears on the reverse side of the paper due to the pressure of the indentation. The letterpress image is sharp, crisp and the text or design is embedded into the paper. This method of print works really well with art papers and cotton textured paper types.
Engraving
Similar to the letterpress method, the image is etched onto the metal or copper plate. When the ink is applied, it is held in the engraved area and wiped clean on the flat surface of the plate. It has the feel of an embossed area and is particularly suitable for heavy weight correspondence cards or invitations. This method works really well also with coloured paper stocks.
Foil Stamping
This is the application of pigment or metallic foil, often gold or silver but can also be various patterns or what is known as pastel foil which is a flat opaque colour or white special film-backed material, to paper where a heated die is stamped onto the foil, making it adhere to the surface leaving the design of the die on the paper. Foil stamping can be combined with embossing to create a more striking 3D image. A very luxurious finish. Suitable on matt and textured stock. this method works particularly well with coloured paper stock.
