If you want to add some excitement to your print marketing materials, consider using special effects like hot foil stamping. This technique not only makes your materials stand out but also add a unique touch to your print pieces.
If you’re thinking about using this options, it’s important to properly prepare your files. Today, I’ll guide you on how to get your files ready for hot foil stamping.
If you are creating a design specifically for print, it is important to set up your files in a certain way. This is especially true if you are using special print methods like embossing and foil stamping. In addition to the regular file setup, there are a few extra steps you need to take to ensure that your files are prepared correctly for these methods.
Although the file setup for hot foil stamping may be slightly different, there are some similarities. Regardless of the style you are designing for, it is recommended to create a mask file for any project that involves hot foil stamping. To make things easier, you can use programs like Adobe Illustrator or InDesign, which are ideal for designing vector-based artwork
Preparing files for foil stamping
Preparing files for hot foil stamping is an important step in achieving a stunning result. It’s crucial to understand that the foil is printed separately from the rest of the design. Foil stamping is commonly used to add silver or gold highlights, and it can be combined with embossing for an even more luxurious look and feel. The good news is that setting up your files for this process is quite simple.
Step 1: Design your artwork
To begin, create your entire design just as you would for any other printing method. Include all the elements without any special effects. However, any part of your design that will be foiled or embossed should be created as vector shapes.
Step 2: Duplicate your project
Once you have finished your initial design, it’s time to save a separate file that contains only the elements intended for foiling or embossing. Duplicate the original file and give it a new name that clearly distinguishes it from the original. For example, you can use a name like “Filename_FoilStamping_Mask.”
Step 3: Eliminate any elements you do not wish to be foiled
In this next step, delete any parts of your design that you do not want to be foiled. The mask file should exclusively contain the graphics that you want to have foiled or embossed. After removing all other elements, only the vector shapes meant for foiling should be left.
PLEASE NOTE to keep all graphics in the exact same position as the original design when creating your mask file. If any elements have shifted, it may affect the placement of the finishing.
Step 4: Adjust the colour details to 100%K.
Make sure you are designing in the CMYK color space and set your settings to C:0% M:0% Y:0% K:100%. Before finalizing this step, double-check that none of your design elements have moved. This will ensure that the mask file can be used for the foiling process.
Step 5: If you used a template file for your design
Remember to delete the template layer in both files. Only the black graphics intended for special finishing should remain.
Step 6: Saving your design
1. Utilise industry-standard design applications to create Vector Based Artwork.
2. Ensure that Foil Elements are on a separate layer, labeled as file named “FOILING.”
3. Artwork must be saved according to the size it was designed. DO NOT scale your artwork.
4. Remember that foil should always overprint ink.
5. Submit a high-resolution PDF file without scaling your design for optimal results.
Foil Stamping: Essential Guidelines to Follow
Dos:
1. Make sure to utilize Vector based artwork.
2. It is highly recommended to use artwork that has a minimum resolution of 300 dpi.
3. Include a separate layer or PDF to clearly indicate the foil area.
4. Always include a high resolution PDF.
5. Convert all types and fonts to outlines for optimal results.
Don’ts:
1. Avoid using Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint, or Publisher programs to create your file.
2. Never use JPEG, GIF, BMP, or Raster Images.
3. Do not attempt to simulate the reflective effect of the foil in your file.