Glossary

Bevel
The angled edge of an embossed or debossed image. A bevel is typically anywhere from 35 to 75 degrees.

Binding
Attaching the pages of a catalog, pamphlet or brochure, either with saddle-stitching or perfect-binding

Blind Emboss/Deboss
Embossing or Debossing used by itself to create an image, rather than in conjunction with foil stamping or printing.

Brass Die
Used for creating an emboss or deboss. A brass die is best for multi-dimensional dies.

Burnishing
This technique uses high heat, combined with embossing or debossing, to discolor the paper

Chiseled
AV-shaped die is used to produce a chiseled look for embossing or debossing

Copper Die
Used for creating an emboss or deboss. A copper die is good for fine details.

Deboss
Using a die to create a recessed image on the paper.

Die
The piece of metal used for embossing or debossing, or for creating a die cut

Die Cutting
Pieces of metal, called “rule”, are used to cut the paper (or other material) to a specific shape.

Digital Printing
A digital press requires less setup time, making it ideal for faster turnaround and cost-effective for short-run projects.

Domed
A rounded die is used to create a domed emboss or deboss with a rounded profile.

Drilling
A drill produces holes of a specified size in paper or other materials.

Edge Painting
A process by which the edge of a surface, such as business cards, have ink applied to them. Most often used to apply a decorative accent color.

Emboss
Using a die to create a raised image on the paper or other surface.

Foil stamping
Used to create metallic or other effects on stock. Heat and pressure are used to transfer the foil to the stock.

Letterpress Printing
Letterpress printing is a technique of relief printing using a printing press, a process by which many copies are produced by repeated direct impression of an inked, raised surface against sheets or a continuous roll of paper.

Offset printing: Also called offset lithography, this is a traditional printing process that uses printing plates to transfer ink onto a sheet of paper.

Perforation
Often called a “perf,” a perforation is an invisible line cut into the paper to make it easier for the end user to detach a coupon, form or other part of the sheet.

Prepress
The steps involved before a project goes to the press; this may include making any final corrections, as well as formatting the file and making any printing plates or dies.

Proof
Sheets provided by the printer/print finisher before or during production, used to review for accuracy.

Register
Refers to the alignment of the various aspects of a printed piece, including printing inks, foil stamping, embossing or others. When correct, the project is said to be “in register.”

Saddle stitched
Using staples to bind together the pages of a printed piece, such as a magazine or booklet.

Sculptured Die
These handmade dies (usually crafted from brass) are used for embossing or debossing fine details

There are literally hundreds – if not thousands – of terms used in the printing and print finishing industry. We’ve provided the list above as a resource to help educate our clients. If you have any questions or suggestions about the terms above, we’d be more than happy to hear from you.