There are some exciting but relatively unknown embellishments that you can add to your usual print to give it a pop. If you’ve been using the same design for a while, why not consider adding one of these embellishments to the next print run?
Current trends in print embellishment
Like everything else, print has certain trends. At the moment, our clients are keen to use embellishments on their print to help the materials stand out better – here’s what they’re ordering.
Silver and gold foiling
Silver and gold foiling is where pigmented foil is transferred onto a flat surface during, or after, the other printing. It’s a favourite for luxe wedding invitations and high-end business cards. Foiling is a useful embellishment as it’s customisable and versatile while also attention-grabbing.
Gloss lamination
This is where a glossy plastic cover is stuck to the printed material. It fits flush to the edges without a border and is one-sided (i.e., the opposite of encapsulation). Using gloss lamination offers protection to the item and provides a bright, shiny finish with high contrast levels.
Matte touch lamination
This offers the opposite finish to the gloss lamination: the colours seem more muted, lower levels of contrast and a more subtle, natural finish. It will tend to feel smooth to the touch.
Soft-touch lamination
As you might expect from the name, this is a lamination finish that is soft to the touch. Some people describe it as a ‘velvety’ feel, which is what makes it popular for items that are frequently handled. It makes the item more tactile and, therefore, memorable.
Spot UV
This can also be known as Gloss UV. It’s a high gloss finish applied to specific elements of your design resulting in an eye-catching contrast of texture. For example, you could use Spot UV on a sun and you’d be able to see and feel the difference between that and the rest of the image. It’s useful in emphasising a particular element of a design or logo.
Thicker paperweight
Even if it’s not conscious, we can all feel the difference across different paper types and weights. Think of some of the business cards that you’ve recently been given and I’m sure you’ll remember particularly weighty/thicker ones than others. It may seem like a subtle change but reconsidering your choice of paper weight can create a much different response for the user or recipient. Thicker paper, or card, tends to add an air of quality and extravagance to your print.
How to use print embellishments
Using just one of these embellishments can make a significant difference in how people respond to your printed materials. They add a different feel, look and level of quality to something like an ordinary business card or brochure.
That said, it’s not just these items that you can try something new with: each of these finishes can be added to any print, no matter the size. Here are some ways in which you can effectively make your print stand out.
Warning! Don’t go OTT with the embellishments.
Just because you can, it doesn’t mean you should. It’s definitely a situation where less is more!
With the fast turnaround and superior quality provided by R Print, we’re confident that you’ll love your new embellished print. Get in touch with us to try it and find out.