Posts Tagged ‘embossed labels’
Foil Stamped Label Effect
Wednesday, July 21st, 2010We recently got a request from a couple getting married and looking for a foil stamped label to adorn gift bags and other wedding favors. Unfortunately, the foil stamped labels were not within their budget. When we are faced with budgetary constraints, and we can’t find a way to produce the label desired at a price the customer can afford, we try and think outside of the box.
One of our creative ink specialists came up with a great solution, which not only achieved the look the customer wanted, but also fit into their wedding budget. Instead of using a gold foil stamp on a gold stock, we used a dull gold varnish on a bright gold stock to create the contrast and appearance of a foil stamped label. Using the dull varnish made the bright foil stand out and shine, much like a true foil stamped label. The best part? This method was a fraction of the cost of traditional foil stamped labels since we could produce it under our quick roll label program.
While nothing beats the real thing, we were happy the solution we were able to come up with satisfied the customer’s needs. Since the label is for a special occasion, and isn’t part of a product’s marketing or branding strategy, there was some flexibility in how we were able to produce it. When printing a “one-use” custom label with enhanced features like foil stamping or embossing, always ask if there is a different and more cost effective way to achieve a similar look.
Embossed Labels or Foil Stamped?
Thursday, May 13th, 2010
We always get questions about the difference between embossed labels and foil stamped labels. The truth is, there are a lot of similarities about the two label types and some vast differences. First, we should explain each process. Embossed labels are generally only printed on foil paper stocks. Embossing a label involves pressing am image through the back of label stock, making the image appear on the front of the label. Foil stamped labels are created by using heat to transfer colorful foils to a label stock. So, the basic difference is embossing creates an image through the back of the label, while foil stamping is created on the front of the label.
Ok, so what is the big difference? Embossing a label does give off a more 3-D effect. The label has a raised surface, which results in a textured feel. Foil stamping does not produce the same raised feel, but the bright foils can give the illusion of depth. Foil stamping is more versatile because multiple stock types can be foil stamped, like clear film, kraft paper and standard stocks like white gloss and matte.
Another difference is price. Foil stamping does tend to be more cost effective than embossing. For products or packaging that want an embossed feel, but don’t have the budget, foil stamping is a great option.
Lastly, foil stamping and embossing can be combined to create a “super” label. When printed together, the end result can be beautiful. The labels have a three dimensional feel with added depth from the foil stamping, which can create almost a drop shadow effect. Either process will create an excellent outcome, so deciding which type to use really depends on the labels use and your budget. If you aren’t sure if foil stamping or embossing is right for you, ask for samples!
