Foil Blocking (Foil Embossing)
Definition: Foil blocking is basically metal foil (usually Silver Foil Blocking or Gold Foil Blocking) which is used to create shiny metal foil effects on the paper. Mainly used as a special effect to enhance the overall look and quality of a print job.
What is it used for? Commonly used for Christmas Cards, Letterheads, Business Cards, Brochures, Annual Reports and Presentation folders. For example, a logo or text might be foil blocked. Foil Blocking can be used on dark coloured papers and boards as it is opaque.
At What Point do we do it? Foil Blocking is a printing process but is always done after the litho print element of the job but before final finishing.
How do we do it? A die is made from your design, the design is then impressed onto the paper or board by means of a coloured metal foil.
More about: Silver foil looks particularly good on dark blue or black uncoated board. Gold Blocking is very traditional and can be useful for printing formal invitations. Foils are available in a wide variety of metallic and non metallic colours. Different Effects include, Flat Foiling, Textured Foiling and Foil Embossing (See Embossing)