Printing methods – How do you choose?

There are many different printing methods to choose from and deciding what direction to go can be overwhelming. There are 3 top things to consider when picking a printing method. They are budget, number of colors and your desired texture.

Below we describe 5 different printing methods that we offer, how they are priced and the best application based on color and texture.

Digital/Flat Printing

Digital printing is best for tons of color and creating different artistic effects like watercolor and ombre. It consists of liquid ink that rests smoothly on the surface of the paper, leaving little to no texture. The benefit of this method is that you get unlimited color choices for the same price. It tends to be the more modern application of print as well as the most budget friendly.

Letterpress

Letterpress printing is best for designs that require a simple color palette and a textured surface. It consists of liquid ink pressed into the surface of the paper, leaving an impression and a tactile texture. It is priced by the number of colors the design specifies, so that is why you typically only see 1 and 2-color letterpress printed pieces more than you see 3 or more colors.

Digital with Letterpress

Combining these 2 printing methods can really set your wedding apart! It is best for bright colors and washes that are printed smooth on the paper’s surface. Then the details and wording can be pressed into the paper, achieving that tactile texture combined with unlimited color choices that digital has to offer. This type of printing is priced for the digital printing + the number of letterpress colors.

Foil

Foil stamping your wedding invitations is best when shine is a key design element. Foil comes in many different colors like silver, gold and rose gold (as shown above). It even comes in black or white. Shiny foil sheets are stamped into the paper with heat, creating an impression on the surface (like letterpress) with the results being shiny. It is priced based on the number of foil colors.

Embossing

Embossed designs are for the minimalists who love texture. Embossing is similar to letterpress because it also creates texture. In comparison to letterpress, embossing creates a raised texture rather than an impressed one. The design essentially stands up from the paper! This is a highly specialized method and is priced based on the dimensions of the design.

With so many printing methods to consider, it’s helpful to focus on your priorities around budget, colors and texture. Once you decide these 3 things, it becomes easier to create something really special for your wedding.

Feel free to contact us to learn more.