The methods used to add your logo or personalization to a corporate gift or
promotional item is dependent on the type of product you select and the material
it is made of. The following sorts through the different methods.
Deboss - Typically leather items such as portfolios, pad holders,
and business card cases are debossed. "Debossing" is done by making an
impression into the surface. Many people confuse this with "Embossing", which is
done by making an impression on the reverse side. Embossing is typically done on
invitations or stationary. Debossing is an elegant method and a discreet way to promote your
company.
Foil Stamping - This method puts
usually a gold or silver color imprint directly on the leather with a metallic
foil.
Silk Screen - Silk screening is done on everything from T-Shirts to
desk clocks. It is a widely used process. Ink is forced through a silk screen or
a fine mesh onto the product or item to be screened. Each color is done
individually.
Embroidery - Embroidery is used on shirts, baseball caps, tote bags,
certain types of synthetic and material padholders, and much more. The cost of
embroidery on a shirt is typically more expensive than silk screening, but it is
a very impressive way to show off your logo. The price of embroidery is based on
stitch count. Stitch count is calculated by the size and intricacy of your
logo.
Pad Print - Pad printing is used normally when an item is an odd
shape. An example of an item that would be pad printed is a small stress ball. A
curved pad that has the color ink you are using is rolled over the item to be
printed.
Engrave - Engraving is done on metal and wood. The engraving is done
by cutting into the material. With wood items, the natural color of the wood is
exposed. Many times people will color fill where the engraving has been done to
make their logo stand out.
Etch - Etching is done typically on crystal and glass. There are
terms such as light etch deep etch, and sand blasting. The difference is
primarily how deep the etching is in the glass. Sand blasting is a method where
a blast of air or steam shoots sand at a high velocity in order to etch the
glass. Color fill is also an option with this method of personalization.
There are other unique processes for imprinting and personalization, but
these are the primary methods used for corporate gifts.
