Printing: Version 5.0

November 13, 2013/Tina Deprez

You’ve upgraded to the iphone5s, employed new marketing software, and purchased a pencil sharpener for your office that can also function as a television, computer, and cappuccino maker — with whip. But have you thought about upgrading your print marketing?

For years, the reigning thought in the print industry was that ink on paper was your only option — but all that has changed. Today’s sophisticated printing methods allow for previously unthinkable finishes and coatings. Added tactile, visual — even olfactory — stimuli work like MAGIC to catch and hold the attention of your target audience.

Here’s a small sampling of some printing techniques you can use to create a STANDOUT piece:

Embossing/Debossing — Embossing produces a raised impression on your paper, while debossing creates a depressed impression.

From Tasteofinkstudios
Debossing
From Graphicdesigninspiration


Varnish — A varnish is a liquid coating applied to a printed surface to add an intensified finish. There are different types of varnishes: gloss, matte, satin, and UV.

From Flickr
From Flickr

Die Cutting — This technique involves cutting shapes in paper or paperboard. A die can be used in printing for cutting, scoring, stamping, embossing, and debossing.

From Smashinghub.com
From Smashinghub
From Smashinghub
From Smashinghub


Foil Stamping — This process is quite similar to UV-spot printing. Foil stamping is fantastic if you’re looking to jazz up your business cards, invitations, booklets, or logo with some metallic dazzle.

From Monkeyandthewhale
From Monkeyandthewhale
From Monkeyandthewhale
From Monkeyandthewhale


Thermography — Similar to engraving, this technique adds dimension and texture to a printed piece. Thermography is perfect for letterhead and envelopes, announcements, presentation folders, or business cards.

From Weddingpaperdivas
From Weddingpaperdivas

Letterpress — Letterpress is the oldest printing process. This technique provides a relief-type effect. During this process, a surface with raised letters is inked then pressed against paper to transfer the ink from the type.

From Etsy
From Etsy
From Flickr
From Flickr


QR Codes — QR Codes are typically used to transmit data from print to your mobile device in the form of simple URLs linking potential clients to a website or digital location. Think of QR codes as your own personal bar code to promote almost anything you want!

From Flickr
From Flickr


3D Printing — This technique enables three-dimensional images to be made. Learn more in Understanding the Basics of 3D printing.

From WTWHmedia
From WTWHmedia
From Cubify
From Cubify


Scented Coating — Scented coating and inks make it possible to provide an aromatic experience while sharing your content. This technique appeals to multiple customer senses.

From Twitter
From Twitter


Lamination / Silk Lamination — Silk lamination provides a soft, silk-like finish, which is water-resistant and tear-resistant, and complements vibrant colors.

From Finoprint
From Finoprint

You can use one or a combination of these printing techniques to set you apart from the competition and take your marketing to a place it’s never been!

This new world of sensory marketing and advanced printing techniques will make your next print piece shine. Stand out. Be a cut above the rest. (Did you catch all the plays on words in that listing?)

If you’d like to see more examples of unique print techniques, check out Heritage Printing on Pinterest!

Or call us today to learn more about using Seed Paper to “go green” with your next print piece. This amazing paper is embedded with wildflower, herb, or vegetable seeds that turn your printed piece into an edible treat or a flower bouquet. How’s THAT for making your print piece more memorable?

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