Engraving is a printing technique that creates raised text and images. It originated in the 1400’s in Germany and was used for centuries to produce artworks, maps and illustrations. (More rudimentary forms of engraving have been around since as early as 3000 BC.) Today, it is a high-end printing process that can cost more, but yields very clear, sharp results even with fine details. Thermographic printing was invented to mimic engraving. Thermographic printing works well for many applications but is limited with respect to very small letters and images or highly-detailed images.
Engraving can be done manually or be automated. Artists and artisans specialize in manual engraving; commercial printers use hand-fed or automated presses.
The Engraving Process
In commercial printing, engraving uses metal plates on which the image/text to be printed is etched. The grooves etched into the plate are filled with ink (the plate is covered with ink, then wiped, leaving ink only in the grooves). The paper or other substrate is laid on the plate and high pressure is applied to force the paper into the grooves, capturing the ink. Once dry, the ink will be raised on the surface.
Engraving uses inks that are more opaque than standard offset printing inks. These inks can be printed on dark substrates: light text on dark paper versus the common dark text on light paper. Engraving can employ true metallic inks (gold, silver, copper) as well.
For That Luxurious Effect
Engraving is the technique of choice when you want to convey elegance and sophistication. Engraved pieces are both visual and tactile. Engraving is often used for short-runs of invitations, custom business cards or stationary. High-end law firms, banks, etc., use engraved stationary because the raised effects can’t be mimicked on a laser printer. Engraving says “this is the real thing.” (Currency is engraved.)
If you have any questions about engraving, give us a call at 330-597-8560. We’re happy to help you get the most out of your printing project.
