Expo to Showcase Value of Specialty Embellishments
The following article was originally published by In-plant Impressions. To read more of their content, subscribe to their newsletter, IPI E-News.
The Foil & Specialty Effects Association (FSEA) (Booth 4763) brings expertise to PRINTING United Expo, focusing on helping printers and finishers showcase the value of specialty embellishments in today’s competitive marketplace. FSEA's presence at the Expo provides attendees with resources for understanding and implementing embellishment strategies that can differentiate their work and increase profitability.
Examples of some of the embellished pieces produced by the University of Pittsburgh’s in-plant.
The current embellishment landscape offers unprecedented variety and opportunity for creative differentiation. “What is exciting right now is the variation of specialty embellishments available in the marketplace today,” says Jeff Peterson, executive director, FSEA. “This includes hot foil stamping, cold foil transfer, digital foils, and both screen and digital spot coating technologies.”
Each of these embellishment technologies offers distinct advantages and considerations depending on the specific application. Digital embellishment technologies have experienced significant growth in recent years, but rather than replacing traditional methods, they have expanded the overall market for embellishments. The increased exposure digital embellishment technologies have brought to the market has helped grow other areas of embellishments, creating a rising tide effect that benefits the entire specialty finishing sector.
This technological diversity means printers have more options than ever for adding value to their work. Still, it also requires greater expertise in selecting the right embellishment approach for each project. FSEA’s educational programming addresses this need by providing comparative analysis and guidance on the application process.
Expo Programming
FSEA’s participation in PRINTING United Expo reflects the organization's commitment to practical education and industry advancement. The association is planning an FSEA-sponsored breakfast during the show, featuring a panel on “Choosing the Right Metallic Embellishment for Your Print Job.”
This discussion addresses a critical decision point for modern printers, given the numerous choices now available in the market for adding metallic elements to printed pieces. The panel will provide coverage of metallic decorating processes, including hot foil, cold foil transfer, digital foil embellishments, and foil transfer or laminated paper/board applications. This comparative approach helps attendees understand not just what technologies are available, but when and why to use each approach.
In addition to the breakfast panel, Peterson will deliver a separate presentation, “Sustainability and Metallic Decorating Processes,” as part of the paid education program. This session addresses growing industry concerns about environmental impact and helps printers navigate sustainability considerations while maintaining the visual impact specialty embellishments provide.
For printers seeking to differentiate their work and boost profitability through specialty finishing, FSEA’s programming offers essential learning opportunities that can directly impact business success.
Stay tuned for more Expo pre-show coverage!
