Tuesday, July 29, 2014

Create Arresting Finishes With Foil Embossing Dies

By Miranda Sweeney


Specialty finishing techniques provide a unique way of the attracting the attention of potential customers. They add a touch of class to items like certificates, book covers, presentation folders, packaging for products and stationery. Foil embossing dies can be used for this process and they can be bought from many stores today, including those online.

When designs are raised or depressed, this creates an extra element. In order to raise a design, it is necessary to use a die. It is also important to apply heat and pressure. When the correct amount of heat and pressure are applied, the fibers in the area of the die are raised thus creating a three-dimensional image.

Foiling is a process of applying a metallic material to an image. The range of colours and textures of such material available today is huge. The die and the item to be foiled must be positioned accurately. When the heated die presses against the image, the foil which is sandwiched between the two is pressed onto it. Sometimes when heat is applied to foils and the paper being used is coated, heat can release certain gases that cause blistering and bubbling. It may be worthwhile to do a trial run.

Foiling and embossing an image can be done in one step or separately. When using only one step, it takes the right type of die and a perfect combination of heat and pressure to achieve the desired results. Sometimes for a smaller job where the image is only embossed with a single level, a flat stamp die is used for foiling and another die for embossing.

The type of metal from which a die is made is also important. The type of metal chosen depends upon the intricacy of a design, the size of a job and how many times it may need reprinting. Magnesium ones are inexpensive but they are not that long lasting. If designs have intricate details, a copper die is more suitable. For particularly intricate designs a more expensive brass die may be necessary.

The simplest die may be used to create a single level design. Others are available that can create more than one level. A sculptured die is used when various angles, curves and depths need to be created. A die also varies in depth. The deeper the die, the more the necessity for edges to be beveled or with pressure, it may cut right through the paper.

The choice of paper when using specialty finishes is important as it can have an effect on the end result. A thick, heavy stock is often easiest to use. One that has long fibers is best as stretching needs to take place. Textured paper can be used as the smooth, embossed image stands out nicely from the textured surrounds. However, a densely flecked variety can draw attention away from the embossed image.

It is possible to add class and distinction to stationery and many other items with images that are foiled and embossed. The dies used to create these effects are available for purchase from online stores. It is important to remember when purchasing such items that having the right die for the right purpose really does matter, even though it may be more costly.




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