So, what is the purpose of print embellishment, and what can it be used for?
Believe it or not, embellishment is not a new concept; it’s been used in enhancing product marketing for years. Die cutting, embossing, coating and foil stamping have always been effective ways to make a product truly stand out, but recent advancements in print technology have allowed these embellishments available to digital printing for more customised, intricate, and aesthetically pleasing applications.
And with the increase in competition and a saturated marketplace, it has never been more vital for companies to deliver the highest quality products possible, without compromising on cost - businesses should not overlook the importance of digital embellishments in product marketing.
Indeed, capturing the attention of the consumer is critical; the decision whether or not to purchase a product is made when the customer is physically standing in the aisle facing the shelves. By utilising digital print embellishment tools, you can create premium packaging for your product, that not only has an enhanced shelf appeal, but stands out from all of the other products in store and effectively engages the customer – meaning they are more likely to purchase your product and invest in your company.
And with the marketplace rapidly adapting to new technologies, now has never been a better time to invest in digital print embellishment. A recent 2020 study revealed that print buyers and packaging manufacturers are willing to pay 24% to 89% more for a printed piece with embellishments, proving that they massively aid in boosting sales and setting your business above the rest.
But it’s not only product packaging that can be enhanced by print embellishment; it can also help with your marketing campaign. Add an extra layer of quality to your business cards or brochures, transforming a standard print into something much more premium; reflecting the professionalism and quality of your business, and letting customers know you can offer something truly unique and worthwhile.
Is It Worth the Investment?
Digital embellishment produces results, and investing in and mastering embellishment tools is incredibly worthwhile and will undoubtedly benefit your business in the long run. For example, a 2017 paper from Mintel’s Global Packaging Trends concluded that 52% of shoppers were more drawn to packaging with unusual, unique, or eye-catching designs – and that is exactly what embellishment provides.
Types of Embellishments
As touched upon above, the term ‘embellishment’ covers a wide range of areas, and there are several different techniques that businesses can use to enhance their marketing strategy or product.
Foiling
Foiling typically involves adding reflective and metallic highlights to a two-dimensional piece. It can be done using a variety of colours such as gold, silver, or metallic shades of green, red, or blue. This method of embellishment is typically found on things such as wine labels, or other premium products that aim to convey sophistication or glamour.
Die-Cutting
Die-cutting is the process wherein shapes are cut out of card, paper and other light materials. The more traditional methods of die-cutting use die plates that are pressed into the material to cut out the desired design. However, modern, digital die-cutting creates more precise shapes and patterns using a beam of laser. It eliminates the need for dies and plates, which helps lower costs and speeds up the overall process, maximising efficiency.
Embossing and Debossing
Embossing involves pressing a pattern or design onto a surface as opposed to cutting it out. This method of embellishment is usually done on business cards and invitations for an additional layer of intrigue, uniqueness, and dramatic effect.
Debossing, on the other hand, utilises the opposite technique of embossing, wherein a concave impression is made by depressing the design into the material.
Varnish
Varnishing not only adds protection to a product, but it also aids in drawing attention to a printed piece, giving it a professional, sleek appearance. You can utilise varnish on specific areas of a piece, such as your brand name, enhancing your logo and visually appeal to the customer.
Coating
Similar to varnish, coating is applied to protect printed pieces from smudges, scratches, and fingerprints, adding an extra layer of quality to your product. With coating, you can choose from gloss, satin, or matte finishes, which can be applied to selected page areas such as your company logo or key information. This process is called spot application.
Spot UV Coating
Spot UV coating, through machines such as the Duplo DuSense DDC-8000, adds dimension to images printed on a flat sheet. The textures and patterns produced by spot UV coating bring a page to life and allow the audience or consumer to actively engage with the printed piece and more likely to invest in your brand. Simply put, spot UV coating is a form of embellishment that makes print more profitable.
Metallic and Pearlescent Coating
Metallic and pearlescent coating produces a reflective, shimmering surface. This mode of embellishment is guaranteed to capture the attention of your target market.
Aqueous Coating
This form of embellishment is a water-based clear coat that creates an extra layer of protection to keep the ink and paper from staining, creasing, and tearing. Its texture is velvety and luxurious and adds an extra layer of sophistication to your product, reflecting the quality of your brand.
Contact Us Today to Find Out More
Here at Duplo International, we specialise in providing the highest quality print embellishment tools for our clients so that they can provide the best customer experience. With years of experience, we will help you produce more, for less, simplifying complex tasks, and creating premium products that will set your business above the competition. For more information on the products we have on offer, visit our website or get in touch with us today.
