The Foil & Specialty Effects Association (FSEA), in cooperation with PaperSpecs (an online platform developed to communicate easy-to-understand tips and tricks on print and paper technologies), has introduced the Foil Cheat Sheet – a single go-to source explaining the different techniques available for creating metallic foil finishes. From hot and cold foil to toner-based and varnish-based digital foiling, the guide describes each technique and provides the advantages and disadvantages of each.

Nothing livens up a print creation quite like the eye-catching shimmer of foil. Yet few designers or even printers and end-users realize all of the options available and when it is best to use which one. The Foil Cheat Sheet outlines all these options with this easy-to-understand guide. The coil bound collector’s item features a wraparound cover and interior pages that actually use some of the same foiling options discussed inside, as well as soft-touch lamination and fabulous French folds. It even includes a fold-out table that summarizes the process, colors available, overprintability, best paper stocks and suggested print runs.