Traditional Block Foiling

Using heated plates, traditional foil blocking also known as hot foil stamping, involves applying metallic foil to paper or card (or die). As the foil is hot pressed onto your card or paper stock, your foiled elements are somewhat debossed and textured. 

This method works well with thicker, uncoated paper stocks. As this is the traditional way to do Foiling, it is also time consuming for larger volume orders, as a result it is not something we offer at Same Day Printing as we are more focused on time efficiency and bulk prints.

1 - 3 Stages of block foiling

Why Foils and  What is Digital Foil Printing or Sleeking?

In comparison to traditional hot foiling, digital foiling does not require a 'die' or a custom metal stamping block, but it does require an additional printing pass. Traditional hot foiling requires more setup time than digital printing, which may be done virtually quickly.

Fine detail is feasible with both methods of foiling, although digital foiling may hold better detail as digital foil is not indented. However, the distinction is minor.

With digital foiling, the prints must go through a desperate press to be foiled in bulk numbers allowing you to foil many prints at once compared to the manual stamping of Traditional Foiling.

Similarities

• Both procedures can give logos, text, and visuals a beautiful metallic printed appearance if desired.
• Both methods may produce a mirror-like brilliance as well as more subdued satin and matt appearances.
• Both methods may produce a wide range of colours, including conventional metal colours like silver, gold, rose gold, and copper, as well as more common colours like blue, green, red, pink, and white.
• Within the foil coating, both methods can create holographic effects. These look like they belong on a banknote or a high-end voucher.
• Clear foils can be used in both techniques to simulate spot varnish effects.
• Both create an exquisite and luxury finish

Using Foiling in your Printing

Foiling adds a high quality feel to key details on printed pieces like packaging, stationery, business cards, annual reports, brochures, book covers and stationery.

Foiling is also a perfect addition for security detailing and top-end bespoke design work but it also offers exceptional value for money. 

Whether you choose to foil the whole of the surface or just add some top level finishing touches, your product will look stunning and high quality. Adding foils to make a key detail pop on your design work, can create a one-of-a-kind design piece that will set you apart from the crowd — almost effortlessly. So if you're looking for something extra special for your brand then we can thoroughly recommend foiling as an option.