To engrave or not to engrave...

...that is a question that we hear quite often. With the seemingly endless variety of invitation styles and designs available, choosing a wedding invitation can seem an overwhelming task. When considering your bridal stationery budget it is helpful to know the various print methods and costs associated. Here is a simple description of each:

1. Engraving

Engraving is the most traditional printing method for wedding invitations and it is also the most expensive. The hallmark of engraving is sharp, raised print created by a copper or steel die used on a press. The die is engraved with the text and motif and then inked. Excess ink is wiped away and pressure is used to transfer the image onto the paper. To tell if something has been engraved turn it over and you will see a slight indentation on the back of the paper where the line of type falls.

2. Letterpress

Letterpress was created by Johannes Gutenberg in the mid 15th Century, and has seen an increase in popularity over the last several years. Instead of raised print, letterpress is a relief printing which uses a reverse raised surface which is then pressed into cotton or bamboo paper. Custom press plates are required and the labor involved can make it almost as expensive as engraving.

2. Thermography

Thermography was created to mimic the raised print of engraving at greatly reduced price. To achieve the raised print, powder is added to the wet ink and the paper is then heat set creating a raised effect.

4. Flat/Digital Printing

The least expensive print method is digital printing. Printing methods vary from laser to giclee and invitations printed in this manner can be just as beautiful, and much more affordable, then the above mentioned print methods.

No matter your budget, there are plenty of design and print styles for invitations that best represent your personality. We welcome the opportunity to show you the options and help you to choose the invitation that will set the tone for your special day. (Appointments are appreciated, but you are welcome to stop by and browse our selection.)