Sleeking - what is matrix-free gilding | Foilers

Sleeking is a digital printing enhancement technique that makes it possible to achieve effects previously unavailable to this technology. In this article we will take a closer look at what sleeking is, how it works and the opportunities it opens up for modern printers.

What is sleeking?

Sleeking is a matte-free gilding method that allows refining digital prints by applying a special film to selected areas. This technique allows obtaining effects such as gilding, silvering without the need for traditional, expensive dies for use in digital printing/.

How does sleeking work?

The sleeking process is based on the properties of the toner used in digital printing. Here are the main steps:

1. Digital printing: first, a digital print is created with the elements to be enhanced.
2. Film application: a special film is then applied to the printout. film sleeking.
3. Thermal treatment: under the influence of heat, the toner acquires adhesive properties.
4. Film adhesion: the film adheres only to areas covered with toner.
5. Removal of excess: excess film is removed, leaving the refined parts.

Applications of sleeking

Sleeking opens up new opportunities for printers digital, allowing you to create unique designs:

1. Gilded business cards: Elegant, eye-catching business cards with shiny elements.
2. Gold-plated flyers: Advertising printed materials with striking gold accents.
3. Refined packaging: luxury packaging with metallic or holographic elements.
4. Invitations: Unique wedding or special occasion invitations with sparkling details.
5. Stickers: Striking stickers with metallic or holographic elements.

Advantages of matrix-free gilding

Sleeking offers many advantages over traditional refining methods:

1. Lower costs for small print runs: No need for expensive dies.
2. Speed of implementation: The process is much faster than traditional methods.
3. Customizable: Easily create personalized designs.
4. Variety of effects: Gilding, silvering, holograms and other special effects.
5. Eco-friendliness: less material consumption compared to traditional methods.

How to differentiate your print shop with sleeking?

Introducing a sleeking service can significantly increase the competitiveness of your print shop:

1. New services: Offer customers innovative finishing methods.
2. Short runs: fulfill even small orders for luxury prints cost-effectively.
3. Prototyping: Quickly create samples of refined packaging for customers.
4. Personalization: Offer personalized, luxury printed materials.

Equipment needed for sleeking

To implement the sleeking process, you need:

1. Digital printer: Any toner printer, including HP Indigo.
2. Foilmaker: for example Automatic Foiler SF390A or Foiler SF-540.
3. Foil sleeking: A special foil available in different variants (gold, silver, etc.).

Types of sleeking film

Different types of sleeking film are available, allowing for a variety of effects:

1. Gold: Classic gilding
2. Silver: Elegant silver shine
3. Metallic colors: Red, green, purple, copper, pink

Application techniques for sleeking

There are several techniques for applying sleeking, allowing for a variety of effects:

1. Printing + gilding + added background printing: Classic method with additional printing.
2. Background printing + soft touch foiling + black toner foil printing + gilding: A complex technique that produces exceptional results.
3. Hybrid variant: Combination of offset printing and digital finishing.

How to prepare a project for sleeking?

Preparing a project for sleeking requires consideration of several key aspects:

1. Selection of elements to be refined: Decide which parts of the design should be gilded or silver plated.
2. Proper file preparation: Create a separate layer for the elements to be refined.
3. Selecting the right film: choose a film that matches the design and substrate.
4. Testing: always perform tests before full production.

Summary

Sleeking is a digital printing enhancement method that opens up new opportunities before modern printers. With this technique, it is possible to create unique, luxurious prints without investing in expensive dies.

Whether you want to create elegant business cards, eye-catching flyers or luxurious packaging, sleeking will allow you to achieve exceptional results. Consider incorporating this service into your print shop's offerings to stand out from the competition and attract new customers.

If you want to learn more about sleeking or need help choosing the right equipment, contact us. Our experts are eager to help you realize the full potential of this innovative technology.