vineri, 25 iulie 2014

Create Compelling 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 an image is embossed, this means that it is raised from the surrounding areas. A die is used for this process and heat and pressure are necessary. Different quality results are produced depending on the type of die used as well as the consistency of heat and pressure applied.

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.

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.

Another choice to make when considering buying a die is the type of metal used. If magnesium is used, it will be cheaper in price but it will not last as long and the effect is not as good with detailed designs. One made from copper is durable and can be successfully used for fairly detailed designs. However, if sharp bevels and sculpturing are required, a brass die may have to be used even if it takes longer to make and is more expensive.

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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