Die-stamping

Also known as Engraving, Intaglio or Copperplate 

Die-stamping suits multi-colour crests, coats of arms, menus, invitation cards, letterheads and business cards requiring fine detail.

When using this print technique, our skilled craftsmen often engrave steel dies and copperplates that are then printed using traditional heavy die-stamping presses. The pressure forces ink up from recessed lines, creating a raised, tactile, three-dimensional print surface that is simply impossible to replicate digitally or with standard litho printing. The process bring designs to life.

Large areas of dense solid colour can be successfully die-stamped by using a ‘screened’ or ‘sable’ die. Screen die permits solids, fine lines and reversed-out areas and is a natural choice for cards, labels, logotypes, crests, book covers, symbols and stationery.

Because the die is engraved and the impression is made under considerable mechanical pressure, every sheet carries a genuinely physical mark of making. That tangible quality is the commercial benefit: recipients perceive the printed piece as more considered, more premium, and more trustworthy.

Technical options include combining die-stamping with an embossing die for added depth, multicolour printing with gold or rich matte inks for vibrant results, and compatibility with laser-jets and fine print processes.

Here’s a visual overview of the process and options:

The benefits of die-stamping include:

• Emboss with a second die for extra effect,
• Incomparable when used with multicolour designs,
• Matte inks make for rich, vibrant colours
• Laser compatible

We can use this technique with a combination of other fine print processes.