Services Printing Companies Provide In Addition To Printing

Many printing companies offer an array of services that include several methods to ensure accuracy and efficiency of the final product. From crafting brochures, to menus, banners and wall decals, the options are limitless as to what a full-service printing company can manufacture. High quality print collateral is achieved due to the different machines being utilized- such as offset lithography, digital printers and large format printers. While printing is essential and the main service provided, there are many other functions that make crafting products possible. Read below to learn more about the finishing services printing companies often offer.

Die Cutting

After a project is finished printing, it is sometimes required to be cut into precise shapes. Die-cutting is the process of cutting intricate patterns in one cycle by using metal cutters called dies. These machines use a combination of rollers and cutting plates to put pressure on the dies and push it through the paper to cut out a shape. The dies look as if they are metal cookie cutters. Cutting out any elaborate shape is feasible due to die cutting machines. For example, retail signage such as discount decals are printed on a few large pieces of stock. Then, the stock will be sent through a die-cutter to cut out the decals. The excess material will be removed after the product is finalized. Since multiple shapes can be created in one round, die cutting is efficient and perfect for big jobs.

Embossing/Debossing

Embossing and debossing are techniques to impress or depress an image or words onto paper. These methods are popular and allow for print to have a new, eye catching look. Embossing is the raised relief on print or stock that gives it a 3D effect. This is crafted by using a die, a metal plate cutter, and a piece of stock. The die will press into the paper, like a stamp, and will raise the image off of the paper. This service will make logos, images, or initials stand out. While embossing can be designed on paper, it can also be done on leather, wool, acrylic or metal.

Debossing is the opposite of embossing. It is when an image or letters is imprinted into the print piece, which gives it a depressed effect. Debossing does not interfere with the back of the print piece, which allows for both sides to work with. Embossing and debossing is great for greeting cards, brochures and business cards, to create a clean look and leave a positive impression.

Foil Stamping

A specialty printing functionality includes foil stamping. It is the process of using heat, pressure, metal dies and foil film to apply color on a designed printed piece. The foil rolls come in an assortment of colors, finishes and optical effects. Colors can include glossy, matte and solid finishes. A particular design will be created and individual color foils will be applied onto that design. Foil stamping is usually paired with an embossed or debossed image or words to create a visually appealing piece. A variety of textures can be included such as glossy, matte or holographic textures. Foil stamping is ideal for wedding invitations, book covers, menus and business cards.

Bindery

The final step in the printing process to create the completed piece is finishing, or bindery. It includes the folding, cutting, sewing, stapling and stitching. It is how books are bound, magazines are stabled and pamphlets are glued or stapled. A binding machine can bind documents such as planners by using spirals, wire or thread. After finalizing, a professional product will be produced. A folding machine can fold paper or stock, through sharp-edged bending. Additionally, lamination and shrink wrap are also imperative functions. Businesses may need their product to be shrink wrapped before shipment, or a large window cling to be laminated. These processes stretch the lifespan of the pieces and protect them against moisture and tears. Bindery and finishing is essential for creating a clean, finalized product. Through the use of many different machines, bindery services are made possible.

Besides printing, there are many different services that printing companies have to offer! Die-cutting, embossing, debossing, foil stamping and bindery are all vital methods to create eye-catching, professional looking print materials. The use of these different services can craft pieces that stand out and increase positive engagement.

Written by Omega High Impact Print Solutions’ Digital Marketing Intern, Noelle Reinhardt