Foiling Techniques for
Eye-Catching Packaging Designs

When it comes to selling your product, first impressions matter. And the best way to make a good first impression is through your packaging design. If you're looking for ways to take your packaging solutions to the next level, there are a variety of custom packaging techniques to choose from, including embossing, debossing, and foil stamping. Which you choose ultimately depends on the substrate and the type of unique designs you're most interested in creating.

In this blog, we'll discuss foiling techniques in custom packaging, including the metallic foil stamping process and the unique benefits of foil stamping.

What is foil stamping?

Foil stamping is a specialty printing process that uses metal dies, heat, and pressure to apply foil films directly to your packaging in a thin layer. Although hot foil stamping is the most common form of foil stamping, some companies opt for a cold foiling printing technique, which uses UV light to transfer the metallic foil (instead of heat and pressure) to your packaging material.

For the sake of this blog, we will discuss using hot stamping foils to create eye catching designs, specifically. Read on to learn about the different types of foil stamping applications and techniques, regardless of your preference for a matte or glossy look.

Common foil stamping applications

Often used in stationery, labels, holiday cards, certificates, book covers, and post cards, the addition of a gold or silver foil to your product packaging can give it a very elegant and high-end appearance. Although gold foil is an incredibly popular choice, there are a variety of metallic foils and foil colors to chose from, including holographic foils, metallic or copper, silver foil, and foils with a glossy finish.

Different foiling techniques in packaging

Based on the substrate, type of finish, and desired effect, you can choose from one of these hot stamping techniques. Learn more about the different methods of gold foil stamping below.

Flat metallic foil stamping

With flat foil stamping, a copper or magnesium metal stamp or metal die transfers the foil directly onto the substrate. This is a simple, and economical process and is ideal for companies on a strict budget.

Vertical foil printing

With vertical hot foil stamping, silver or gold foil designs are stamped directly onto flat packaging and paper products in specific cylindrical shaped areas using heat.

Sculpted foil stamping

This hot stamping technique uses metal dies to achieve a raised image via embossing the material. The end result of this stamping process is a clearly designed and "carved" look. With this technique, you can feel the stamped area with your hands.

Peripheral foil printing

This stamping process involves transferring foil to the outer perimeter, across the entire circumference, of the product. As you probably guessed, this stamping option is a more expensive option since it involves adding the metallic foil film to the entire package.

Design considerations for foil stamping

If you're considering incorporating gold foil into your packaging designs, here are some quick tips to keep in mind as you explore the many different types of materials and designs:

Use vector art instead of bitmap or raster as you prepare your file for printing
If you're adding stamping foil to text, in most cases, the minimum recommended font size is 8pt (also remember that types appear bolder in foil then they do in ink)
Space out your text for enhanced readability
Remember that gold foil printing can be combined with other elements, like high gloss or a rainbow effect. You also aren't limited to gold: you can choose silver, metallic paper, or holographic foil.

Evaluating the costs of adding metallic foils into your packaging

Foil stamping may not appear cost effective from the start, but the process can help increase the perceived value of your brand. Whether you're competing with other brands or want your brand to reach a new target audience, foil printing is a great option. Whether you opt for gold foil, holographic foil, or one of the other types of foil stamping, one thing is for sure: foil stamping is eye catching and the perfect way to enhance your brand image, regardless of the color or types of foil you use.

Choosing the right partner for foiling

As you can see, foil stamping and foil printing is an incredibly complex process. It's important to find a partner that's well-versed in foil stamping, embossing, debossing, and other printing techniques.

Fortunately, CarePac lives and breathes product packaging and is very experienced with hot foil stamping. Our CareDesign team can help walk you through the stamped process, from the design stages all the way through shipping. With CarePac, creating the packaging of your dreams is possible! Contact us today to get started.

Foil stamping FAQs

How does foil stamping enhance the visual appeal of a brand's packaging?

Since foil stamping produces a reflective and vibrant finish, it can help catch your customer's attention. Gold, silver, or holographic foil stamping can also make your product more noticeable and attractive on the shelves.

Can foil stamping be integrated with other design elements on packaging?

Yes! With foil stamping, you aren't just limited to...foil stamping! You can create packaging that also includes features like soft touch, matte, or holographic or metallic paper elements or materials.

What is the turnaround time for a foil stamping project with CarePac?

Our innovative lead-time menu gives you more control over your printing or stamping project. We offer Express, Standard, and Economy options. You can learn more here.

Do you offer foil stamping prototyping before final order placement?

Yes! If you want to see your foil stamping project before you put in a large order, there's no pressure. Just inquire about our printing and prototyping options as you get started with your design. We're ready to help you achieve the perfect packaging on a timeline that works best for you. We can also help you select the right material, whether you prefer a matte or glossy look.

Foiling Techniques for
Eye-Catching Packaging Designs

What is foil stamping?

Common foil stamping applications