Monday, July 28, 2014

Create Specialty 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.

If an image is to be embossed, this involves using a die. The die is made from metal and consists of a section and a counter section that fit together and squeeze the paper fibers. With the application of heat and pressure, these fibers are raised above the level of the rest of the paper. The quality of the job will depend on the amount of pressure applied, the consistent application of heat and the type of die used.

Foiling is another process that offers the option of integrating a special metallic effect. Foils come in gold, silver and many other colors too. Heat is required for the transfer of foils to paper and for the process to work, the foils and images have to be precisely aligned. Certain paper finishes work better than others and a waxed or coated paper may affect the end result.

An image can be embossed and foiled in two separate processes, first the one and then the other. They can also be done together by using a combination die that does the foil stamping and embossing all at once. The type of design, length of the job and various other factors will determine whether one step or two are used.

A die can be made of magnesium, copper or brass. The magnesium die is the most affordable. However, it breaks fairly easily and does not produce great results with intricate designs. For jobs of a large size where many reprints may have to be done, it is better to go with copper or brass. If a design is detailed and the paper stock used is heavy and textured, copper or brass are also better. Brass is the most expensive and it used when a job requires sharp bevels or sculpting.

The depth and shape of a die are chosen according to the nature of work to be done. A single level die only changes the paper surface at one level. A multilevel one works on a number of levels. A sculptured die is necessary for an image with curves, angles and depths. Very deep dies have beveled edges to prevent cutting 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.

When images are foiled and embossed, a touch of class is added and a raised three-dimensional impression is created. This can help any product to stand out from those around it and receive attention. Ready made dies are available and one can find these online. Choosing the die most suitable for a specific project is necessary for the best result, even if this involves extra expense.




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