stationery guide: print methods

Today we will be reviewing the four most common ways to print your invitations.  How you choose to print your wedding invitations will impact the overall cost of your invitation suite, and the paper you use can make a dramatic impact on your event theme. 

DIY PRINTING
Choosing to print yourself gives you the most control over your print options,  but also comes with its own set of unique limitations.  This is the most economical print option, but also the most time consuming.  This print method is only suggested if you have patience and are comfortable using your home printer and a paper trimmer.  With this option, you have complete control over paper selection so long as your home printer will handle it. 

A few key questions to ask yourself:
- Am I DIY savvy?
- Does my printable allow me to print full bleed, or will I have to trim each item?
- Do I have the time and patience to print and trim each item?


FLAT/DIGITAL PRINTING
This print method is also an economical option, as the ink is flush and flat against the paper.  This professional print method generates crisp and clear graphics and colors, while allowing you to have your invitation suite professionally printed on an array of paper types.  This is the most commonly requested print option with our clients!  We especially love the look and feel of cotton paper.


THERMOGRAPHY PRINTING
This print method is a heat based process where ink is raised slightly from the papers surface.  Both matte and metallic ink colors can be used, but pricing varies depending upon the number of  desired colors used in the printing process.

LETTERPRESS PRINTING
Letterpress is the most expensive, but most dramatic, print option.  With letterpress, inks are pressed into the papers surface.  Similar to thermography, matte and metallic ink can be used.  Pricing varies depending upon the number of colors used in the printing process.