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. Scroll to the end to download a handy chart with a side-by-side comparison of these 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 brilliant metallic finish. Gold, silver, rose gold, and copper are the most common colors, but other shades (think red, green, pink, or even white) are available.
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
Specialty Flat Printing
With specialty flat printing, ink lays flat on the paper, leaving a smooth finish. This is similar to traditional flat printing, but white ink printing is available on dark paper or envelopes or colored inks on light paper or envelopes.
sPECIALTY FLAT PRINTING PROS
– can print white ink on colored paper or envelopes
– less expensive alternative to foil stamping on dark paper
– variable data is possible (like escort cards or envelope addressing)
sPECIALTY FLAT PRINTING CONS
– no impression (ink lays flush with paper)
– not ideal for thin lines or small type
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 or envelope addressing)
– great for photographs (like save the dates)
FLAT PRINTING CONS
– no impression (ink lays flush with paper)
– no metallic ink
– not available on colored paper
I’ve put together a chart comparing these four printing styles! Just enter your email address below to view the comparison!
Looking for more information about your printing options? 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.
