DECORATiNG GLOSSARY
Screen-Printing / Silk-Screening
Screen-Printing or Silk-Screening describes the process where an image is transferred
to the printed surface by ink, which is pressed through a stenciled screen
and treated with a light-sensitive emulsion. Film positives are put in contact
with the screens and exposed to light, hardening the emulsion not covered by
film and leaving a soft area on the screen for the squeegee to press ink through.
A different screen is created for every color you print then each color is
run separately allowing drying time in-between.
Embroidery
Embroidery describes the stitching of a design into fabric
through the use of high-speed, computer-controlled sewing
machines. Artwork must first be "digitized," which
is the specialized process of converting two-dimensional
artwork into stitches or thread. Then the sewing machine
is programmed to sew a specific design, in a specific color,
with a specific type of stitch.
Debossing
Debossing is a process achieved by depressing an image into
a material’s surface so that the image sits below the product
surface.
Embossing
Embossing describes the process where an image is impressed
in relief to achieve a raised surface.
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Etching
Etching uses a process in which an image is first covered
with a protective coating that resists acid, then exposed,
leaving bare metal and protected metal. The acid attacks
only the exposed metal, leaving the image etched onto the
surface.
Laser or Foil Stamping
Laser or Foil Stamping describes metallic or colored foil
imprints to vinyl, leather or paper surfaces.
Die-casting
Die-casting requires the injection of molten metal into the
cavity of a carved die or mold.
Die-striking
Die-striking produces emblems and other flat promotional products
by striking a blank metal sheet with a hammer that holds
the die.
Pad-Printing
Pad Printing requires a recessed plate to be covered with
ink. The plate is wiped clean, leaving ink in the recessed
areas. A silicone pad is then pressed against the plate,
pulling the ink out of the recesses, and pressing it directly
onto the product.
4-color Process Printing
4-Color Process Printing describes a system where a color
image is separated into 4 different color values by the use
of filters and screens (usually done digitally).
Laser Engraving
Laser engraving describes an imprinting method by which art
or lettering is cut into a material by a laser beam that
vaporizes the portion exposed through openings in a template.
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