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Label Express

Finishes

Foiling and Cold Foil Labels

Cold foil lets brands apply gold, silver, bronze and other metallic finishes precisely where they're wanted, a logo or border, without the cost of a fully metallic substrate.

01

What Is Cold Foiling?

Cold foiling applies a thin layer of metallic film to specific parts of a label using adhesive and pressure, rather than heat. Because it works at the print stage, it integrates easily into digital and flexographic production runs.

02

Key Benefits of Foiling and Cold Foil

Cost-Effective Metallic Finish

Achieves a premium metallic look without the cost of a fully metallic label substrate.

Precise Application

Foil is applied only where it's needed, such as logos, borders or specific design elements.

Wide Range of Metallic Shades

Available in gold, silver, bronze and other metallic finishes to match your brand.

Adds Shelf Standout

Helps premium goods, cosmetics, spirits and artisan products catch the eye.

03

Cold Foil vs Hot Foil

Not sure which foiling method suits your label? Our team can recommend the right option.

Cold Foil

Best for applying at the print stage with adhesive and pressure, integrating into digital and flexographic runs, shorter runs and multiple SKUs.

Hot Foil

Best for heat-and-die application in a separate process, very high-end low-volume finishes and slightly crisper detail on some substrates.

04

Common Applications

  • Personal Care
  • Beverage
  • Retail and Promotion
  • Food

FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions

01What's the difference between cold foil and hot foil?

Cold foil is applied at the print stage using adhesive and pressure, making it easier to integrate into digital and flexographic runs. Hot foil uses heat and a metal die in a separate process, often for very high-end, low-volume finishes.

02Is foiling cost-effective for shorter print runs?

Yes. Cold foil in particular is well suited to shorter runs and multiple SKUs, since it's applied during the main print run rather than as a separate process.

03What metallic finishes are available?

Gold, silver, bronze and other metallic shades are all available, applied precisely where you want them on the label.

04Can foiling be combined with other finishes?

Yes. Foiling works well alongside laminates, varnish and silk screen for a fully embellished label.

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