Here is our guide to the hot foil blocking process, from artwork receipt to the finished product.

1. We receive the client’s artwork in our in-house design studio as a pdf, 100% black and actual size (unless specified). Along with the guide for foiling position that is all we need at this stage. See a full list of our artwork requirements here.
2. We produce either a CNC engraved or an etched die in-house. Dies are metal plates produced in either magnesium, brass or copper. We etch them to a standard 1.2mm depth but deeper finishes are available upon request. More information on our hot foil printing dies can be found here.
3. We position the die onto the heated machine bed of the selected hot foil blocking press. The machine reaches a heat of between 100-175°C. We then prepare the substrate for foiling. Find a list of substrate types we foil onto here.
4. Using a combination of heat, dwell time and pressure, we transfer the foil (supplied on rolls) onto the substrate. You can find out exactly how the foil works here.
5. The hot foil transfers onto the substrate in the exact position required by the client and will remain on there.
6. All jobs are quality checked and signed off by experienced managers. We check running sheets to ensure the quality remains throughout. That’s the hot foil stamping process complete.
7. The finished sheets complete with hot foil get sent back to the printer or 3rd party for further finishing (die cutting, gluing etc)

A printed copy of our ‘how foiling works’ insert can be found in our brochure. Click here to request a full Blockfoil brochure.

Hopefully this page has helped you understand the hot foiling process but if not don’t hesitate to get in touch with your local Blockfoil office.