Hot stamping is a printing process that is ideal for a very wide range of uses, from business cards and greeting cards through to labels. It’s easy to customise and make designs unique and is a simple method to create a distinctive aesthetic that conveys a sense of quality. Key to the process of hot stamping are the dies that are used to bring designs to life. Here, we’re explaining how brass and magnesium dies are used.
Why do we use dies?
The metal dies are a vital part of hot stamping and will influence the look and feel of the final design. The dies are engraved with the desired design and then applied to foil. Heat and pressure are also applied and the finished result is that the design on the die appears on the chosen material in the foil that you’ve decided to use (the process is also called ‘hot foil stamping’). Different materials can be used to create the dies and this choice can sometimes have an impact on the process.
Using brass dies for hot foil stamping
Brass is one of the most commonly used materials for creating dies for the hot stamping process. It tends to be affordable and easy to work with and is suitable for small to medium production runs. It is a durable, general purpose material that can be used for many different types of hot stamping, whether that is on leather, paper, wood or books. Brass dies are a great option because they will transfer heat well and can be used to produce a very textural result in minute detail.
Magnesium dies for hot foiling
Magnesium is a very versatile material, which is why it is such a great choice when it comes to hot foiling dies. Magnesium dies tend to be less durable than their brass counterparts, which makes them ideal for saving costs on shorter runs. However, they will produce the same fine results as brass dies, including when it comes to the details. These dies can be used on the same substrates as brass dies, including wood and paper. They will also be a great choice for a broad spectrum of other options, from napkins through to book bindings and jewellery boxes.
Brass and magnesium dies for hot stamping today
Whether you opt for brass dies, or magnesium dies, there are some obvious benefits to investing in the process of hot foil stamping. Foil stamping helps to create a sense of quality and value and often lays the foundations for a luxury pricing strategy. There are lots of different types of foil available and it’s very easy to customise designs. Plus, foil stamping is very eye-catching and very tactile – research has found that customers are drawn to metallics and more likely to pick these products up off the shelf.
Brass and magnesium dies are fundamental to the hot stamping process, delivering a reliable and detailed surface for transferring designs. They are a key element in accessing all the benefits of hot foil stamping, whether that is for something as simple as a business card or a full packaging run.