Foil stamping is such a classic finishing technique. But do you know which foil to choose? Let’s go over the differences between matte and metallic foils.
What are matte foils?
Matte foils have a shiny finish but aren’t highly reflective. If we were to compare them to the paint you’d use in your house, you’re looking at a high-gloss paint.
Matte foils look best on lighter-colored paper stock. While they aren’t transparent, when set on dark paper they lose some of their vibrancy.
What are metallic foils?
Metallic foils are the most popular foil. Like matte foils, metallic foils have a shiny finish, but are also highly reflective.
Metallic foils look great on light or dark papers, and on any paper texture or finish.
When to choose matte foils, when to choose metallic foils.
Two things to consider: branding and paper choice.
First, let’s talk branding and foil colors.
The most popular metallic colors we stamp with are metallic gold and metallic silver. Even larger brands use them—even if their colors aren’t gold or silver. Gold and silver are just so… classic. Your brand can’t go wrong with either of those colors.
Next, let’s talk paper stocks.
We have more color options with our matte-finish foils, BUT matte finish is best on lighter paper only. Metallic foils? Choose any paper you want.
Will matte foils show on dark paper stock? Sure. But they won’t show as well. For example, white foil on black paper will be a dull white. White foil on pink paper will appear brighter.
Can you color-match foils?
No. But we do have a collection of 27 matte and metallic foils that customers find suit their needs when designing custom presentation folders with their foil stamped logo.
Check out our entire collection of foils for stamping on pocket folders. Need help designing foil stamped folders with your logo? Learn how to design for foil stamping or let’s talk.
We’re Easy Pocket Folders, and we specialize in custom pocket folders for businesses, churches, non-profits, and more. All of our folders are made in the USA.