Tuesday, May 21, 2013

WEDDING NOTES™ – Your Invitation Choices

The type of printing you choose will influence the price of the invitations you choose as much as the type of paper you choose.  Whether you print your own or have them done by a master printer, be sure to select a printing process that works on the type of paper you choose.

These are the most commonly used printing processes.
  • ·        Engraving – This is the oldest form of printing in which paper is positioned between an etched copper plate and an inked plate.  The etched plate forces the paper onto the inked plate, creating raised lettering on the front of the paper and “dimples” on the back.  Engraving is expensive because the copper plate has to be custom-etched and can only be used once.  The printer sends back the etched plate for you to keep.  This is an expensive form of printing for invitations. However, it  is frequently used for large formal weddings.  There are a number of print styles available for engraved invitations.  However, the most popular are script or a clear block style.
  • ·        Thermography – This is the term that describes a type of printing that combines ink, resin and heat to create a raised lettering that looks like engraving only at a lower price tag.  It is the most popular print type used in most weddings today.  It looks like engraving on the surface plus it enables you to select different ink colors.  Engraving is done only with black ink for the best result.
  • ·        Offset printing (lithography) –is done with an inked plate or roller which transfers the text to the paper, creating a flat (not raised) printed image.  It works well with either smooth or textured paper and is a popular/inexpensive option.
  • ·        Digital printing – This is the relative “newcomer”.  Made possible by computers, it often has more precise resolution and color matching.  It is the most economical option.  It works best on smooth surface paper or lightly textured paper.

The print style you choose will reflect the degree of formality of your wedding and your unique personal choices.

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