When working with a couple to design their perfect invitation, one of the questions that we consider is what printing process is right for them. We are proud to work with only the finest printers and press shops in the area and offer a full spectrum of choices. Since all of Brown Sugar Design’s invitations are custom, we are able to ensure that your invitations fit your style, personality, and of course, your budget.

Included below is very basic information about the various methods that we offer, including Offset, Letterpress, Laser, Thermography, and Engraving. Read on to learn more about these processes, and always feel free to email any questions you have to us at info@bsdstudio.com.

Offset Printing
With offset printing, the ink sits flat on the paper. The basic principles of offset printing remain constant, although sizes and quantities of presses may vary. When a plate is exposed, an ink-receptive coating is activated on the printing area. Once on the press, the plate is dampened, first by water, then by ink. Ink adheres only to the image area. As the press cylinders begin to rotate, the image is transferred to a rubber blanket. Paper then passes between the blanket and the image is “offset” onto the paper.
We at Brown Sugar Design only work with the finest printing professionals, who provide clean lines and sharp type. Most importantly, we only work with professionals who stand behind their work. For the budget-conscious, offset is an excellent choice, especially for larger quantities of materials. If quantities are small (50 or less), consider laser printing as another option, as this will usually cost less.

Letterpress (Our Favorite!)
On letterpressed materials, the type or image is indented into the paper. The depth of the image will vary depending on the thickness and texture of the paper. Thicker, softer papers will carry a deeper impression than hard, smooth papers. Using a raised surface printing plate, the paper is “pressed” into the plate, resulting in the textured surface described prior.
We are happy to assist you in choosing a paper and design to complement a letterpress print. For example, photographs are not recommended to be printed in this style, as they can look “muddy” and not show up well. Extremely small type should not be pressed onto thick paper, as the print could get lost in the paper. Letterpress is one of our favorite printing methods, as the finished result has a beautiful, luxe, and tactile feel and look.

Laser Printing
Laser printed pieces often look the same as offset printed pieces, if they are printed correctly and on a laser-friendly paper. The laser method involves fusing toner onto the paper with heat. Some papers buckle under the heat, so we help you determine whether or not laser is the choice for you. The biggest difference between laser printing and offset printing is that laser printing can be scratched off of the paper with a little effort. Laser printing is a fabulous option to save money when quantities are small. As quantities increase, offset becomes a better option for the wallet.

Thermography
On thermographed pieces, the ink is raised above the surface of the paper. Thermography involves five stages of printing, the first being the application of a slow-drying ink. Four more ink applications are then added. Thermography is not recommended for small type or photographs, as the finished product is not legible or clear. It is a great process to use in combination with other processes (for example, offset with thermographed names.) It is also a fantastic money-saving alternative to engraving.

Engraving
With engraving, an image is raised above the surface of the paper. Engraving typically provides the clearest, sharpest image of all traditional printing methods. Plates for engraving are made of steel or copper; the ink is applied and floods the cavities of the plate. The plate is then wiped clean, leaving the image area filled with ink. Intense pressure is applied to transfer the image to the paper. Engraving is typically the most expensive process, but the finished product is lush, beautiful, and of the highest quality.

If you have any questions about these processes, please email us at info@bsdstudio.com. We would be happy to help you select the perfect printing process for your invitations, announcements, save the dates, programs, menus, and other custom correspondence.