Three-ring binders help companies of all sizes to organize and present information to their prospective customers in an attractive way. Foil stamping and screen printing are two different image infusion methods that add a metallic finish to your custom binder. Both processes can be combined with binder accessories such as a padded board, business card holders, and inside pockets to provide an attractive promotional vehicle for your brand.
Foil Stamping
This process involves a metallic foil being heated and pressurized on to the vinyl cover of your three-ring binder. This metallic foil has the same shiny effect as gold or silver leafing. It contains light-catching reflective properties that create a shimmering image of your artwork. Foil stamping imbues a luxury feel and would be attractive to consumers who require an upscale appearance.
Your only choice is foil stamping if you want to add a metallic shine to embossed elements. If metallic ink is used, it will crack and ruin the effect. If you want a textural quality to your artwork, metallic foil stamping is also the way to go. This effect is heightened when foil designs are also embossed.
Screen Printing
Screen printing uses a type of ink mixed with gold or silver particles to produce a less intense, subtler effect. Even though the ink has a metallic base, it does not produce the high shine of the foil stamping process. It does achieve a clean image with just a hint of metallic. Metallic ink can provide a greater level of detail then foil stamping, but requires a coating on top to make it last longer.
Other Differences:
Cost – Screen printing costs less than foil stamping. It is also more flexible and can be placed anywhere on your custom binder, sometimes only incurring a small extra charge. Foil stamping costs are higher because they are based on the expense of the stamping die and the overall square inch coverage of the artwork.
Materials – Foil stamping can only be used on vinyl while screen printing can be used on both vinyl and poly materials.
Color – Foil stamping is only available in gold or silver, while screen printing inks come in many color choices.
Summary
Your target audience should drive the decision to use foil stamping or screen printing. Screen printing has advantages of cost, functionality, and color options. However, if your binder needs to grab the attention and impress your target audience, you should consider foil stamping. Remember that the way you market your product leave a lasting impression and you need a promotional binder that fulfills your vision.
