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Hot stamping vs Cold Stamping
- Hot stamping vs Cold Stamping
- The great variety of metallic finishes that a product can have makes you think more than twice about its image. Therefore, most of the customers wonder what is the difference between cold foil vs. hot stamping, two stamping techniques that predominate in the merchandise of various industries.
- Two unique printing techniques
- The first difference between cold foil vs. hot stamping is the technique. Hot stamping is known to be a traditional printing system carried out by thermal transfer. Usually, it requires a stamp -in which the embossed design to be stamped has been engraved- which is pressed against the foil (whose adhesive is already activated thanks to the temperature and heat), making the design adhere to the desired substrate. Meanwhile, cold foil is not based on temperature, but on ultraviolet light, so it needs a flexo printing machine. Here the foil fixes the design to the substrate with the help of a roller that puts pressure on the foil and the wet parts of the UV adhesive are placed on the material (according to the required pattern), and then dried under a UV lamp.
- What materials are they best applied to?
- The second difference between cold foil vs. hot stamping are the materials to which it can be applied. Cold stamping is preferable for completely smooth surfaces. So it is a good choice for wine labels, self-adhesive labels, security labels, and Tickets. On the other hand, hot stamping is preferable for textured papers and rough labels, which is why it is common to find it on banknotes, official documents, papers, calendars, Paper bags, business cards, cardboard boxes for shoes, cardboard boxes for cosmetics, cosmetic packaging, pharmaceutical packaging, promotional items.
- Which looks more sophisticated?
- The third and final difference between cold stamping and hot stamping is their appearance. Although both can be holographic; hot stamping can transfer graphics, text, and other printed materials to almost any surface, leaving a personalized product, Bringing out a specified color, usually a metallic color, such as silver, gold, bronze, or other colors with shimmering reflections. These colors are often subconsciously associated with luxury and elegance, producing high quality results. By marking products with this technology, it can withstand harsh conditions and is highly durable. Hot stamping is a relatively clean process compared to other systems, this is because the machines work with rolls of aluminum foil or pre-dried inks. The choice between one and the other depends on the brand, the product, and the commercial intentions that are to be achieved. We are experts in hot stamping and it will be a pleasure to create your next packaging. June 12 2023|Emilia Piedra Donoso.