Finishing in Printing: What are the Most Requested Options?

estimated reading time: 10 minutes

Finishing Options for Printing

In the realm of printing, the term "Finishing" refers to the various processes and enhancements that a print project might undergo after the ink has been applied to the paper. Finishing adds value to a print project by improving its appearance, durability, and/or functionality.

Below is an alphabetized list of the most popular and often requested finishing options…

Aqueous Coating -

Aqueous Coating is an economical clear coat that helps printed pieces resist minor scuffs and scratches. As its name signifies, aqueous coating is water-based. When applied over a printed substrate, it disperses water-soluble polymers onto the surface. These polymers form a protective film over the printing as the water evaporates. Aqueous coatings are available with a gloss, matte, or soft touch finish. Aqueous coatings can only be applied as a flood coat and work best for projects printed on coated stocks. Though aqueous coatings add some resilience to printed pieces, they are not as durable as UV coatings or laminates.

Binding -

Binding refers to the process of fastening multiple sheets together. Binding is most often associated with book creation, where the cover and pages of a book are joined together using adhesives, stitching, or various mechanical means such as staples or binding coils. Ringed binders, such as the widely used 3-ring binders, are another popular way to securely bind pages together. Also, printed cards, such as those used for quick reference or educational purposes, are often bound into convenient sets using a screw-and-post system or by inserting a metal ring through a hole punched in each card.

Collating -

Collating refers to the process of collecting and assembling printed sheets in a specific order. Many print projects, including books and brochures, require multiple printed sheets to be arranged in a pre-determined sequence. This results in sets of printed sheets that are organized in a consistent and logical manner. Though some projects are occasionally collated by hand, the majority of projects use automation to perform the collation of printed documents.

Cutting and Trimming -

More often than not, the Cutting and Trimming process is an essential step in print production rather than being an optional request. This is because many projects are printed multiple-up on a parent sheet and then separated into individual pieces using a cutting blade or shear. In addition to cutting larger sheets into smaller pieces, trimming operations are used to remove excess paper from the perimeter of printed pieces. Both methods reduce the physical size of a printed sheet to yield the desired finished size.

Die Cutting -

Die Cutting refers to a creative fabrication technique that cuts paper, cardstock, label stock, and other substrates into shapes that cannot be achieved with straight-line cutting. Functioning much like cookie cutters, cutting dies have thin metal blades formed to match the outline of the desired shape. The sharp die is then pressed into the printed stock, cutting the substrate into the new shape. In addition to giving printed pieces a more interesting contour, die cutting can also add features that make printed pieces more functional, such as hooks for door hangers, business card slits for presentation folders, interlocking flaps for packaging, and so on.

Drilling -

Drilling uses a rotating bit to bore round holes in paper and other substrates. Drilling is efficient because it can bore through large stacks of paper, creating clean holes in hundreds of sheets at once. One of the more common uses of drilling is adding holes to the sheets and tabbed dividers that will be placed in a ringed binder, such as the popular 3-ring binder. Drilling is also used to create the round holes that give certain printed pieces the ability to suspend from something, such as wall calendars or hang tags.

Embossing and Debossing -

The finishing techniques of Embossing and Debossing add a three-dimensional effect to paper and cardstock. Both the embossing and debossing processes use a matched set of metal dies - one male and one female. The substrate is placed between the two mating parts and, with the aid of pressure and heat, the dies press logos, text, shapes, or patterns into the paper substrate. The difference between embossing and debossing is the direction in which the image is pressed into the paper. Embossing creates a raised design whereas debossing results in a recessed design. Both methods cause the paper or cardstock to permanently conform to the shape, enhancing visual appeal and drawing attention to the printed piece. Embossing and debossing can be used as standalone techniques or in combination with spot clear coats, colored inks, or metallic foils.

Foil Stamping -

Foil Stamping involves the transfer of a metallic or colored foil to specific areas of a paper or cardstock substrate. A custom-made die applies the foil using heat and pressure. The foil, which is applied in the shape of a logo, tagline, text, or other design exhibits high reflectivity and gives a very high-end look to book covers, brochures, business cards, and other pieces intended to make a positive impression. In addition to popular metallic finishes like gold, silver, or copper, foils are available in a variety of striking colors. Holographic effects can also be achieved with foil stamping. Furthermore, this distinctive finishing method can be used by itself or combined with the embossing technique.

Folding -

Folding is a very common finishing step. A fold involves bending one part of a printed piece back upon itself until it lies flat. Folding can be incorporated to reduce the overall size of a printed piece and/or enhance its functionality. As such, folding is a critical part of many print projects. For example, saddle-stitched booklets and catalogs are created entirely of folded sheets that are bound together with wire staples. Also, many popular types of brochures and pamphlets, such as the bi-fold, tri-fold, and accordion fold are created simply by using different folding sequences. It's also no secret that the majority of menus and maps are folded to make them more convenient to use. Most print materials, especially those produced in volume, are folded with specialized machines that can fold precisely (and pre-score if necessary) to ensure a clean and professional appearance.

Laminating -

Many print projects have an optional clear Laminate applied as a finishing step. Made of durable plastic film, laminates are bonded over printed pieces to add a layer of protection. In addition to guarding against damage from dirt and moisture, laminates help the printing resist scuffs and wrinkles. Plus, laminated printing is nearly impossible to tear. Available in various thicknesses, textures, and sheen levels, laminates offer a practical way to improve the look, function, and longevity of printed items. Printed items that are handled frequently and/or subject to stains and spills are often ordered with a laminate. Common examples include restaurant menus, placemats and counter mats, training materials, flip books, reference sheets, cards and tags, book covers, brochures and marketing pieces, bookmarks, and business cards.

Padding -

Many business documents are made into multi-sheet Pads. Common examples include handwritten forms, expense reports, memos, picking slips, and checklists. After the printed sheets are assembled into a neat stack, a flexible adhesive is spread over one edge of the stack. The adhesive tacks the sheets together but allows the topmost sheet to be easily removed while the remaining sheets stay attached as a unit. A chipboard backer is normally attached to the bottom of the stack to provide rigidity to the pad. Multi-part carbonless NCR forms can also be created as convenient pads. Pads of NCR forms often have a stiff cover that can wrap around the stack. This cover can slide between the topmost form and the one below it to act as a backer sheet, thus preventing any unwanted transfer of handwritten data to subsequent forms in the pad. If desired, padded documents can be printed with sequential numbers, allowing each sheet within the pad to have a unique identification number.

Perforating -

In the printing industry, Perforating refers to the process of creating a series of tiny holes or slits in a sheet of paper, cardstock, or other substrate. The perforation line allows for a portion of the printed piece to be torn away by hand without harming the base substrate or the section that was removed. Most perforations are created in a straight line but occasionally a print project will require a curved perforation. The size of the punched holes (or slits) and the amount of space between them is what determines how much force is needed to separate the perforation and how clean the tear line will be. Small, closely spaced holes will result in an easier and cleaner-looking tear, whereas larger and/or further-spaced holes require more pull force and will leave a rougher edge. Some examples of print projects that use perforations include marketing door hangers with a detachable business card and promotional mailers or postcards that have a removable coupon or response card. Perforations are also sometimes used to separate printed pieces from each other, such as raffle tickets or continuous NCR forms, or to separate them from a main stub, such as checks or receipts.

Punching -

Punching is somewhat similar to drilling in that it creates holes. However, punching involves forcing a sharp die through a substrate rather than using a rotating cutter to bore through it. Though a paper drill can penetrate a thick stack of sheets, a paper punch cannot penetrate as many sheets at one time. However, where a drill is limited to creating round holes, a punch can make holes of various shapes and configurations, such as the elongated holes used for lanyard straps or the sombrero holes needed for product header cards. Punches are also used extensively for making many holes at once, such as the series of holes or slots needed for a book's cover and pages to accept a spiral coil, wire-o, or comb binding spine.

Round Cornering -

Round Cornering in printing refers to the process of adding a radius to the square corners of print materials, such as business cards, reference sheets, flashcards, hang tags, bookmarks, menus, books and booklets. Rounded corners provide a polished look, which can boost the aesthetic appeal of many print materials. Also, unlike a traditional square corner, the curvature of a rounded corner helps deflect the stress on any single point. This reduces the risk of the corners become prematurely dog-eared and frayed. Rounded corners are also highly recommended whenever a printed piece has a thick laminate applied. Due to the rigidity of thicker laminates, square corners can become quite sharp. This creates a safety hazard, especially when the laminated materials will be handled frequently and/or used by young children. Round cornering is a popular option for business cards, hang tags, flashcards, children's books, field guides, and reference sheets.

Scoring -

In printing, Scoring refers to making a crease or slight indentation in paper or cardstock so that it folds cleanly. Scoring is particularly important when preparing to fold heavyweight papers and cardstocks. Without scoring these heavier stocks beforehand, they will not fold smoothly. Buckling of the stock or splintering of the paper fibers will likely occur. The scoring procedure uses a rigid scoring wheel or metal rule that presses into the paper, forming an indention that slightly weakens the paper and makes it more pliable along the intended fold line. Scoring is commonly used in the production of presentation folders, greeting cards, invitations, note cards, the covers of books and booklets, thicker brochures, restaurant menus, table tents, fold-over business cards and any other print project that requires the folding of heavier papers or cardstocks.

Sequential Numbering -

Sequential Numbering refers to the printing of numbers, in consecutive order, onto a batch of printed pieces. Every printed piece within the batch receives a different number, allowing each piece to be uniquely identified. The numbering process can begin at any chosen number and the numbers can be printed in ascending or descending order. However, ascending order is by far the most widely used format. Also, the numbers can be printed in a single location on each piece, or in several locations on each piece. In addition, sequential numbers are often printed in red ink to make them more prominent. Sequential numbers provide quick identification and accessibility, saving time and effort while categorizing, filing, or retrieving printed documents. Equally important, sequential numbers allow each piece to be individually accounted for, ensuring there is no replication or unauthorized use.

UV Coating -

UV Coating is a hard-wearing clear coat that enhances the durability and appearance of print materials. Made of polymer resin, UV Coatings are applied in liquid form and dried by exposure to Ultraviolet (UV) light. The UV light hardens the coating in a matter of milliseconds. UV coatings can be flood coated over an entire piece or applied as a spot coat to specific areas. Though not as tough as a laminate film, a UV coating offers incredible resistance to scratches and abrasions. UV Coatings are available in a variety of textures and sheen levels, including gloss, matte, and soft-touch. Gloss UV is by far the most requested UV coating option. It adds a glass-like shine and slick feel to printed pieces. In addition to adding a layer of protection, a gloss UV makes ink colors more vibrant. This added vibrancy makes gloss UV a popular choice for full-color projects, especially those used for marketing and promotional purposes.

Yes, Color Vision offers all of the Finishing Options listed above!

As a full-service printing company, Color Vision has an extensive finishing and bindery department. In addition to offering all of the finishing options outlined above, we have a wide selection of binding styles for your book and booklet projects.

So if you are looking for creative and affordable ways to enhance your print materials, give us a call at 800-543-6299 and we'll be happy to discuss ideas with you.

Or, if you already know your project's specs and would like a price quote, just fill out our easy Quote Request form and we will be glad to prepare a custom quote for you.

As always, we hope to hear from you soon and look forward to assisting with your printing and finishing needs!