Guide
Few projects use a single technique. These processes layer on top of one another, and the layering is what creates the character.
Technique 01
A raised plate is inked and pressed into the sheet under pressure. The ink sinks into the fibres while the surface keeps a permanent well. Soft cotton papers hold this impression best. Fine hairlines and very small type stay shallow, so we advise against going below 6 pt.
Technique 02
An impression made without ink. It reads only through light and shadow, and because it changes nothing about the colour of the sheet it is the quietest mark available. It can be raised (emboss) or sunken (deboss), and suits monograms, covers and packaging.
Technique 03
A heated die transfers foil onto the sheet, giving both shine and relief. On dark stock, where letterpress ink is swallowed by the paper, foil is the only technique that truly reads. Beyond gold and silver we stock copper, rose gold and matte colours.
Technique 04
Colour applied by hand to the cut edges of a trimmed card. On thick bodies it emphasises the weight of the piece; matched to a foil colour it ties a whole suite together.
Technique 05
A bespoke cutting die is made for anything that leaves the standard rectangle behind — rounded corners, curved edges, holes and notches all happen at this stage.
Technique 06
Sequential numbering for tickets, invitations and limited editions. Combined with perforation it turns a card into a tear-off reply slip.
Decision guide
Letterpress alone is enough. Choose a body above 600 gsm for depth.
Letterpress ink will not read over a dark ground. Use hot foil.
Blind emboss. No colour, only texture — needs 400 gsm or heavier.
Duplexed body plus edge painting. It adds weight the moment it is picked up.
Letterpress cannot do either. We propose a hybrid with digital printing.
Do not go below 6 pt — the bite flattens and the counters fill with ink.
Related
Technique starts with stock. Weight and texture compared.
See how these techniques combine in real projects.
The history of the technique and how it differs from digital printing.
Let the next impression be yours
Artwork ready or not, send us the quantity, paper and date you have in mind — a detailed quote follows within 24 hours.
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