Choosing the Right Printing Technique for Your Wedding Invitations

As a bride, you want your wedding invitations to set the tone for your special day and reflect your personal style. One of the key decisions you'll need to make when it comes to your invitations is the printing technique you want to use. With so many options to choose from, it can be overwhelming to know where to start. In this post, we'll explain the difference between flat (or digital) printing, letterpress, engraving, and foil printing, to help you choose the right printing technique for your wedding invitations.

Flat Printing

Flat (or digital) printing is a popular and cost-effective printing technique that uses inkjet or laser technology to print images and text onto paper. This method is ideal for those who want a high-quality, full-color invitation at an affordable price. Digital printing allows for a wide range of color options. All of our watercolor work is flat printed. The print methods listed below are options available to our clients for text only.

Letterpress

Letterpress is a traditional printing technique that uses a press to emboss text or line art into the paper. This method creates a deep and tactile impression, giving your invitations a classic, elegant feel. When you run your fingers over the text, the letters will be pressed into the paper. Letterpress is perfect for brides who are looking for a vintage or traditional look, and who want a luxurious and high-quality invitation. The thicker your paper stock, the more “pillowy” your letterpress text will appear.

Engraving

Engraving is another traditional printing technique that uses a metal plate and pressure to create a raised ink impression on the paper. When you run your hand over engraved text, you can feel that the ink is raised up off the paper. This method is ideal for those who want a formal and sophisticated invitation, as it gives a classic and timeless feel to the invitation. Engraving is often used for more formal or traditional weddings, and is a great option for those who want a high-end invitation that will be treasured for years to come. The one caveat is that colors are limited for engraving — so if you are a bride who wants a particular color for your text, this may not be the option for you.

Foil Printing

Foil is a luxurious printing technique that uses a metallic foil to add a shiny effect to your invitation. This method is perfect for brides who want a touch of glamour to their invitation, or for those incorporating silver or gold into their event design. Metallic foil can be printed in gold, champagne, bronze, rose gold, and silver hues. Some brides may opt to highlight only a few lines of the invitation in foil, such as the bride and groom names, or the couple’s monogram at the top.

In conclusion, choosing the right printing technique for your wedding invitations is an important decision that can have a big impact on the look and feel of your invitation. Whether you're looking for a classic and sophisticated invitation with letterpress or engraving, a glamorous invitation with gold foil, or a full-color invitation with flat printing, there's a printing technique that's perfect for your style and budget. We would be happy to provide you with an estimate specific to your needs here.