Methods of Post-Printing Processing for Business Cards

Post-printing processing (post-print) is an important stage in creating business cards. It gives the products a finished look and is responsible for the interesting texture of the printing. Post-printing is not limited to just matte or glossy lamination; it includes more than 5 types of processing. We will discuss these types and their characteristics further.

Post-printing processing is a combination of operations conducted after the printing of the edition. Post-printing helps to bring the products into the desired form and serves as the finishing touch in the production of printed materials.

Post-printing involves mechanical or chemical effects. Their tasks include:

1. Shaping the form;

2. Increasing the product's strength;

3. Protecting against moisture, fingerprint marks, and damage;

4. Enhancing the external appearance.

 Types of processing

1. Lamination: Business cards with lamination are a popular option. During the lamination process, a thin film is applied to the surface, improving the card's appearance and protecting it from damage and dirt. Lamination can be applied to one or both sides and can be either matte or glossy. Gloss enhances the brightness and saturation of images, while matte gives the printing a noble and expensive appearance. Lamination is typically chosen for quick business card printing.

2. Rounded Corners: Business cards with rounded corners are also in demand. They have a unique appearance and greater durability. Corner rounding can be used on all types of paper, including designer, coated, textured, and more.

3. Foil Stamping: In this case, colored foil is applied to the surface, usually on specific areas. Silver, gold, or holographic foils can be chosen. Foil stamping does not require the creation of a die.

4. Embossing: Business cards with embossing are made using a special press. The press squeezes out the desired pattern under heat. A die is prepared in advance for embossing. Colored foil is used to achieve embossing in gold, silver, pearl, and more.

5. UV Coating: With this treatment, a UV coating (special varnish) is applied to the card's surface. The varnish can be applied to the entire surface of the product or specific areas. UV stands for ultraviolet, and the coating quickly hardens under its influence. Business cards with UV coating not only look bright and impressive but are also resistant to wear.

Business cards can also be printed using silk-screen printing (using a stencil form). Electronic business cards are also a great addition here. They look modern and are always available in unlimited quantities.