Elevate Your Designs with Embellishments: Best Practices for Printing

Embellishments add an extra level of luxury to your design, whether it’s for a business card, invitations, or a booklet cover. With that in mind, our team is always keen to ensure your artwork comes out exactly as you envisioned it.

When it comes to adding embellishments to your print, there are some best practices that our studio team recommends to ensure a perfect finished result. So, we checked in with some of our lovely studio team and machine operators from our warehouse to get the lowdown on the best practices for printing with foil and Spot UV.

Best Practices for Using Embellishments

Do…

• Place thin elements and smaller, more intricate fonts on soft-touch lamination to ensure that fine details reproduce clearly.

• Use heavily textured paper stocks for simpler and more structured designs.

• Keep embellishments 3mm away from the edge of the paper, crease, and trim lines to avoid cracking and peeling.

• Space your design out; give your design a little more room to breathe than you would in a piece printed in ink to ensure readability.

• Choose either a thicker or a thinner font, not one that combines both thick and thin elements.

• Make sure that your artwork is supplied at 300dpi to ensure your print is nice and crisp.

  
  

Don’t…

• Use small and thin lines or text; anything too small or fine can be easily missed by the press.

• Foil more than 20% of your design, as it’s hard for foil to stick well on a higher surface area.

• Include gradients, shading, or feathering in your design; embellishment works best off block colours.

• Combine solid areas, detailed patterns, and text in the same design.

• Be afraid to ask your Accomplice for help! www.accompliceprint.co.uk

  
  

Understanding the Importance of Design Elements

When creating a design, every element plays a crucial role. The choice of fonts, colours, and embellishments can significantly impact the overall look and feel of your project. It’s essential to understand how these elements interact with one another.

The Role of Fonts in Design

Fonts are more than just letters; they convey emotions and set the tone for your design. Choosing the right font can enhance the message you want to communicate. For instance, a bold font may convey strength, while a delicate script can evoke elegance.

Colour Choices Matter

Colour is another vital aspect of design. It can influence perception and evoke feelings. When using embellishments, consider how colours will interact. Block colours often work best for embellishments, as gradients can complicate the printing process.

The Process of Printing with Embellishments

Printing with embellishments requires careful planning and execution. Understanding the printing process can help you achieve the best results.

Preparing Your Artwork

Before sending your artwork for printing, ensure it meets all the necessary specifications. This includes checking the resolution, colour mode, and file format. A well-prepared file can save time and prevent issues during printing.

The Printing Techniques

Different embellishment techniques, such as foil stamping and Spot UV, require specific printing methods. Familiarise yourself with these techniques to understand how they will affect your design.

Quality Control

Once your prints are produced, it’s essential to conduct a quality check. Look for any inconsistencies or imperfections. This step ensures that your final product meets your expectations.

Conclusion

Incorporating embellishments into your designs can elevate your projects to a new level of sophistication. By following these best practices, you can ensure that your artwork is printed beautifully and accurately. Remember, the right approach can make all the difference in achieving a stunning final product.

For more information and assistance, don’t hesitate to reach out to your Accomplice. They are always ready to help you navigate the world of print design.