A quick look at adding foil to different types of paper

Paper is a fantastic choice for a massive range of products, from marketing materials to wedding invitations and different types of packaging. People love to see it because it has a great reputation for being green and recyclable. If you’re planning to use it but are considering foiling services to add details to the paper, there is a lot to think about. We want to have a closer look here, so read on for some useful advice that could save you from big mistakes.

Differences

Foiling servicesThe key thing to keep in mind is there are several types of paper. It’s important to understand the differences; they will have a huge impact on how you can use foil.

Firstly, consider the surface. Is it rough and textured or smooth? The rougher it is, the more careful you need to be with foiling. It could have an impact on the final look.

Secondly, think about the other design elements. Are you printing a large background and then using foiling services to add foil to enhance some elements? If so, smoother papers are best to ensure the print is smooth and even before you add the foil.

Perfect matches

As a rough guide, certain combinations of paper and foil go very well together.

For starters, if you choose smooth silk coated paper, you are free to use as much print and foil as you want.

If you prefer glossy paper for a shiny look, keep in mind you should generally only have foil on one side. Plus, it’s best to limit how much print you have.

Uncoated paper is an excellent choice if you want a natural look with grain and texture. However, it’s best to choose smaller foil details if you want the best results with foiling services.

Recycled paper is increasingly popular, especially with more eco-conscious consumers. Whether you choose coated or uncoated, the same principles apply as above.

If you’re making stickers, it will generally be silk or gloss paper with an adhesive layer and a peel-off backing. Therefore, you can once again use as much print and foil as you want.

Finally, if you’re planning to use coloured paper, think about how the foil will look. In many cases it will appear like it is floating on a colourful surface. So, you can create simple foil details or complex designs.

Outstanding foiling services every time

Foil and paper are a fantastic combination. Even better, it doesn’t compromise recyclability in most cases. Typically foils are so thin they dissipate during pulping and don’t affect the quality. It’s always a good idea to think carefully about your design though, including the thickness of the foil and how much you are using.

If you want some help, you can rely on us. As you can probably tell from our name, we specialise in foil and lamination. We can provide a variety of foils and films for different needs, and have the skills to apply them for various projects too. So, get in touch and ask us about foiling services and more; we’d love to hear about your ideas.