Despite the pandemic, foil stamping is still a popular commercial printing technique. It is the process of applying metallic or colored foil to a solid surface by pressing a heated die against the foil. The hot stamping machine is the equipment used to finish the foil stamping process.

This versatile technique involves various foil types to get the desired outcome of a project. Foil stamping is commonly used for printing on stationery, business cards, wedding invitations, and other special occasion cards.

SBL Machinery provides a list of dies and foils used in the foil stamping process to assist customers in customizing their process to meet their specific demands.

Types of Foils Used in the Foil Stamping Process

Some of the commercial foil materials used in the foil stamping process are as follows:

Metallic Foil

It is known as metalized foil and is the most often used material for foil stamping. This foil’s surface is similar to aluminum foil that has a metallic appearance.

The most popular metal colors for foil are gold, silver, copper, and bronze. Colored foils, such as green, blue, or metallic red would also provide a splash of color to your projects.

Pigment Foil

These foils are typically used to create a subtle contrast in design because they lack a metallic shine. Pigment foils, which have a matte or glossy surface, are available in various colors and may be used on both plastic and paper.

Pearl Foil

Pearl foil is another common type of foil used in the foil stamping process. This translucent foil has a lovely iridescent sheen to it and only fully stands out on lighter-colored paper. It is commonly used in wedding invitations or other formal event designs.

Scratch-Off Foil

These foils are made to be readily scratched off with a coin or fingernail. They are typically found on lottery tickets and phone recharge cards.

The foil print on the paper or card is not permanent and may simply be removed. As a result, they are ideal for providing a temporary cover for extremely sensitive information.

Holographic Foil

Holographic foil is just as you’d expect it to be, producing a dazzling rainbow appearance and reflecting colors in the light.

You’ve most likely seen this distinctive 3D design previously on identity cards. It’s even used to add pizzazz on collections like football or baseball cards or other specialized promotional goods.

Types of Dies Used in the Foil Stamping Process

For each design, a foiling die is created based on the pattern and the types/color of foil used. Depending on the cost and application, foiling dies are made from one of three different metals.

Magnesium Dies

They are often composed of magnesium, an inexpensive and soft metal that can be easily molded into various designs. They are lightweight, need less time to etch, and heat up rapidly. However, they don’t last very long and typically breaks after few thousand foiling machine cycles.

Copper Dies

This is more costly than magnesium. It takes much longer to etch and is much heavier. However, it is much sturdier than magnesium dies, allowing it to generate high-quality designs that last for a longer period.

Brass Dies

These are the priciest and definitely the most durable of the three metals. They are solid and may be used for a long time. Typically, they are prepared using computer numerical control (CNC) equipment, which etches the patterns on the die using various sized drill bits.

The dies are produced using a technique known as acid etching. When not in use, each die can be reused numerous times and stored.

Steel and Rubber Dies

Aside from the dies mentioned above, there is also steel and rubber dies. These dies are designed for specific applications. For example, hardened tool steel is one of the most durable materials and ideal for long production runs.

Rubber dies can help in production by minimizing distortion around the stamped area. It can be used in plastic, hard, acrylic applications, and a wide range of flat, curved, cylindrical-shaped products.

Single-Level Die

A single-level die, often known as a foiling die, is the most common die used in foiling. The die has one plain surface and one that stamps the foil.

Patterned and Combination Dies

The foiling surface of a patterned die is texturized, while you can foil and emboss a design in a single cycle with a combination die.

Reliable Hot Foiling Machine Manufacturer

This list of dies and foils used in the foil stamping process is the most crucial thing to know about foil stamping. SBL Machinery is your companion in enhancing the packaging of your products.

To satisfy your design and packaging demands, we provide a variety of industrial hot stamping equipment. Contact us for inquiries at +886 2 2680-2199 or fill out our online form.