Our Foiling & Spot UV Varnish Services

The Difference Between Traditional Foil Print and Digital Foil Print

We produce both kinds of foil print here at RePrint, which allows us to advise our customers on which process would suit their project better.

Traditional foil (or hot foil) printing means applying metallic foil to paper or card using heated plates containing the image. This gives the foil a texture that is sunken into the surface of the material (debossed).

This process is best used on textured boards, papers and envelopes like G.F. Smith and Conqueror.

Digital foil printing negates the need for heated plates, it is printed directly onto the sheet. The process lays down a layer of solid black toner, then foil is heated to around 115 degrees and pressed onto the pre-printed sheet. The foil binds to the solid black toner areas, leaving the non-foiled parts clear.

This process is best used on smooth papers and boards or after lamination.

Spot UV Varnishing

Traditional Spot UV varnishing is applied as a liquid, and then exposed to Ultraviolet light which dries it instantly. This is what gives the area the high gloss finish that shines and enhances the brilliance of the ink colours.

Digital Spot UV varnishing gives a similar effect to the traditional way, although it is not in liquid form, nor is it dried using Ultraviolet light. It is an ultra-glossy plastic film that is (as with digital foil) over-printed directly onto the printed toner. The film is heated to around 105 degrees and then pressed onto the pre-printed sheet.

For more information about the foil and Spot UV products we offer, click the above image or see our foiled products page.

If you would like advice on the best process to use, simply give us a call on 01273 504974

or email us at team@reprintbrighton.com and we will be happy to help.

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