Chances are, before researching wedding invitations, you never had to worry about things like printing processes before. And that’s absolutely normal! Prior to planning my own wedding, I had no idea there were so many different options (let alone what each technique entailed). Since this is a common source of confusion for brides, I put together a quick list of pros and cons of the main printing styles.
FOIL STAMPING
With foil stamping, a heated die is used to press a sheet of thin metallic foil to paper. The resulting design will have a shiny finish – perfect for achieving a brilliant gold.
FOIL STAMPING PROS
– shiny metallics are possible
– the impression can be seen and felt
– can print on colored or white paper
– can achieve an opaque white on colored paper
– pairs well with flat printing or letterpress
FOIL STAMPING CONS
– higher cost per piece (especially for small orders)
– longer print time
– not ideal for thin lines or small type
LETTERPRESS
With letterpress printing, ink is applied to a custom printing plate, then pressed into paper using an antique printing press, creating an impression in the paper. (An uninked plate is used for blind letterpress.)
LETTERPRESS PROS
– deep impression can be seen and felt
– can print on colored or white paper
– add texture and interest without color using blind letterpress
– pairs well with flat printing or foil stamping
LETTERPRESS CONS
– higher cost per piece (especially for small orders)
– longer print time
– each print will vary slightly in ink coverage and impression
SCREEN PRINTING
With screen printing, ink is pulled through a fine mesh silk screen stencil onto paper.
SCREEN PRINTING PROS
– use a true metallic ink
– can print white ink on colored paper
– allows for printing on non-paper surfaces (like textiles or wood veneer)
SCREEN PRINTING CONS
– doesn’t pop on white paper
– no impression (ink lays flush with paper)
– not ideal for thin lines or small type
– can’t be combined with other print methods
FLAT PRINTING
With flat printing, liquid ink or toner is applied to paper, leaving a smooth finish.
FLAT PRINTING PROS
– least expensive of printing styles
– faster turn around time
– can print unlimited ink colors
– variable data is possible (like escort cards)
– great for photographs (like save the dates)
FLAT PRINTING CONS
– no impression (ink lays flush with paper)
– no metallic ink or white ink
– not available on colored paper
Still not sure which printing style is right for you? Please get in touch and I will provide a personalized recommendation based on your stationery needs!
Find more wedding stationery tips and advice in The Wedding Stationery Guide by Banter & Charm.
Wedding Stationery Guide: Ink Colors, Part II
Wedding Stationery Guide: Sizing and Shapes
Wedding Stationery Guide: Flat Printing
Wedding Stationery Guide: Ink Colors, Part III