All printing processes and materials from A to Z can be found here. Use this page as an easy reference to any questions you might have about the material or printing process of a particular piece.
3-ply Napkins : Thick, quality paper napkins available with and without coined edges. Napkins can be printed in full-color or enhanced with foil stamping.
Acrylic : A crystal-clear plastic substrate that can be printed with designs and wording. Offers the look of personalized crystal at a more affordable price.
Assembly : The process of putting invitation components together. This can include layering, tying ribbon, using glue dots, or placing pieces inside envelopes or boxes.
Beveled Edge : An angled edge cut into thick paper or board, adding dimension and a refined finish to the piece.
Cotton Paper : A thick, luxurious paper made from 100% cotton. Best suited for letterpress but available as an upgrade for other print processes.
Debossing : A technique where designs and color are pressed into paper, creating an elegant, indented texture.
Deckle Edge : A feathered, textured edge that mimics handmade paper. Adds an artisanal, vintage feel to stationery.
Die-cutting : The use of metal dies to cut shapes and decorative edges into paper, giving it a custom look.
Digital Printing : A modern print method that produces vibrant colors and crisp details using state-of-the-art digital technology.
Drilling : Creating holes in paper using a machine drill. Commonly used for assembling or tying items with ribbon.
Duplexing : The process of bonding two or more sheets of paper to create a thicker, sturdier piece.
Embossing : A raised design created by pressing a die into the back of the paper. Adds texture and dimension to printed items.
Engraving : A traditional, high-end print process using an engraved metal plate to apply raised ink to thick paper.
Enhanced Raised Foil : A special printing technique that adds a raised layer of metallic foil for a dramatic, textured finish.
Envelope Printing – Offset & Inkjet : Printing return addresses on envelopes using either offset (flat printing with thermography inks) or flat inkjet printing. NOTE: All envelopes from Carlson Craft are printed flat unless requested otherwise in Special Instructions due to concerns about heat treatment impacting the gumming.
Etching : Designs created on acrylic or glass using lasers or cutters for a clean, frosted effect.
Foil Printing : Applying metallic foil to paper for a shiny, luxurious finish. Available in a range of colors.
Grommeting : Joining multiple paper layers with a punched hole and round metal fastener, often used in swatch books or tags.
Laser Cutting : Using a laser beam to cut detailed, intricate designs into paper.
Letterpress : A classic print method where a die presses inked designs deeply into cotton paper for a tactile, timeless effect.
Magnets : Printed on thick, smooth magnetic stock. Great for save the dates, announcements, or keepsakes.
Napkin Printing – 4-Color : Full-color designs and personalization printed digitally onto napkins using CMYK technology.
Napkin Printing – Foil : Applying real metallic foil designs and personalization to napkins for a high-end, reflective look.
Offset Printing : A traditional print method using thermography inks printed flat for a smooth, classic appearance.
Ribbon Printing : Uses sublimation to print full-color designs on satin or grosgrain ribbon for custom touches.
Ribbon Printing : Uses sublimation to print full-color designs on satin or grosgrain ribbon for custom touches.
Single, Double and Triple Thick Board : Paper layers bonded under pressure to create extra thick boards, ideal for luxurious invitations.
Sublimation : A heat-based printing process that turns dye into gas, allowing it to permanently bond with materials like fabric or coated surfaces. Sublimation delivers full-color, high-resolution designs that won’t crack or fade.
Thermography Printing : A process that fuses resin and ink with heat to create raised designs for a stylish, cost-effective finish.
Translucent Paper : A sheer, vellum-like paper used for overlays, wraps, or layering effects.
Variable Printing : Each item is individually printed with information from a provided list—ideal for envelope addressing.
White Ink : White toner printing technology used to apply bright, saturated white ink with clean edges and crisp details.