Foiling is a very similar process to embossing, and can actually be performed at the same time. A metal block is pressed down onto the paper with some heat which transfers a metallic foil from the block to the paper. This block can have a raised relief to emboss or de-boss at the same time. Foils are available in many different colours and patterns, but most common are gold and silver. Using a foil will generally give a more metallic look than printing in a metallic ink can achieve.
Like embossing, foiling tends to be used on higher specification work such as luxury menus, brochures, folders, business cards and wedding stationery. It can look great on it’s own or combined with other finishing effects such as embossing and spot UV.
