Embossing / De-bossing & Foiling

The relevance of adding extra flair to the book such as embossing &/or foiling can add a real quality to the final aesthetic. In the case of the 'Basic Music 101' publication, the idea of a clean exterior finish that mirrors an Apple Mac laptop would entail the logo to be foiled and or embossed. This will give a physical feel to the book that accentuates the logo as defining the book, as no text will be on the cover. It is important for the book to express the visual literacy of this product, as it encapsulates the content of the guide book. 

A consumers interaction with the book is key to attracting them to buy it against its competitors. the physicalities that these techniques to stock produce, is something that (when relevant) will make it stand out from the rest. 

Foil stamping is the use of a malleable metallic material applied to the print surface by using heat and pressure. It adds reflective properties to desired elements of the design, this can add luxury or simply an appealing extra finish to the projection. It is typically used on the text and logo of a design. 

 

Embossing refers to raising parts of the page for emphasis and texture. This print finish adds physical depth to specific elements, which subsequently produces shadows and highlights to the design. Moreover a dimension is added to the design, meaning images and text can be felt, enhancing a consumers interaction with the publication.

If embossing is to be combined with foiling, it can enhance the effects of both techniques.

The process is simple and effective, yet should be trialled and experimented with to ensure the final production is achievable when considering stock types. For example, a piece of card needs to be soaked for just 2 minutes before embosses, compared to more imporous paper that requires 20 minutes. 

paper being soaked in water

drying the paper before pressing 

pressing

end product - embossing /de-bossing and stencils  

Foiling examples - this process is done with a heat presser set at 160 degrees and pressed for 12 seconds. The layer of foil is then peeled off of the desired stencil on the stock with only the required area left.