Offset lithography is the standard printing method used to produce paper based publications and documents; including many examples provided below from the book (Typography – Ambrose/Harris) However, other printing techniques exist for getting ink – and the design onto substrate.
Each of the techniques above imparts qualities into a design that are far beyond simply putting ink onto a page. Differences in the pressure used to apply the ink for example, can add individually, uniqueness or tactically to a design. These examples of letter press printing demonstrate how unique impressions can be created due to variations in the ink transfer from letters to substrate.
hot metal printing
hot metal printing or cast metal composition was developed from letterpress printing and originally involved the casting of lines of type on molten metal. This made it possible to create large quantities of type in a relatively inexpensive fashion. \Nowadays text is typed into a machine to produce a punch sort of paper tape, which then controls the characters cast by a machine. The resulting block – with its raised letters and fine detail can then be used to print from. The impression made, unlike lithography has texture and depth.
Silk Screen Printing.
Silk screen printing finishing forces ink through a stencil, pattern or template that has been produced on silk and stretched across a frame. The primary advantage of this printing method is that it can be used across a wide range of substrates, particularly those that are unsuited to other printed methods.
Gravure Printing.
Gravure or rotogravure printing is high volume intaglio print process in which the printing are is etched into the printing plate ink is then transferred from the plate to the substrate.
Print finishing.
A variety of print finishing techniques can be used to enhance the appearance of typography .. For example, the prominence of type can be increased with the use of screen printing or coloured varnishes. Similarly the use of blind embossing, flocking or spot varnish will render typography in a more subtle light. Basically, having an understanding of print finishing can make a difference between an ordinary and an exceptional piece of work. The execution of a final design is not only enhanced by bring finishing techniques, but it is inseparable from the process.
Embossing a debossing
Both of these techniques are used to produce different visual and tactile qualities to a design. particularly to the covers of reports, books, invitations, or other identity items.
Foil Blocking
Foil blocking is a finishing technique that applies coloured foil to a substrate via heat transfer (I have used this technique before when designing the brochure for Uniplay, it entails creating another file to overlay onto of your original design of which part you want to foil block) its typically used to provide a metallic look to the selected area.
Varnishes.
Varnish is a liquid shellac or plastic coating added to a printed piece after the final ink pass in order to enhance its appearance, texture or durability by sealing the surface. It may add a glossy, satin or dull finish and it can also be tinted to add colour. Varnish can be applied either as a spot varnish or a fully covering piece.
Professional Practice 