How to Create Custom Dies for Your Hot Foil Press
One of the most common questions I get is, “How do I make my dies?”. The answer is actually pretty simple—I don’t!
What is a Die?
Dies are metal plates etched with your design, lettering, or pattern. Here's an example!
Dies press your designs into your paper during finishing operations such as embossing, die-stamping, or foil stamping.
How Dies Are Made
Your design is etched or engraved into a metal plate using high-tech machinery.
Since dies for foil printing are made from metal, they require expensive equipment and machines that aren’t feasible for home use.
That’s why I always order my dies from a trusted supplier, and I recommend you do the same!
This approach allows you to transform nearly any design into high-quality plates for printing, enabling you to explore even more complex techniques like embossing and debossing.
My Die Supplier: Metal Magic
When it comes to sourcing my dies, I rely on Metal Magic. Here's why:
Outstanding Customer Service: I’ve been a loyal customer of Metal Magic for years, and they’ve never let me down. Whether I have questions or run into an issue, their team is always ready to assist, ensuring that I’m never left hanging.
Top-Quality Copper Dies: I prefer to use 16-gauge copper plates for my designs. Copper allows for more detailed work compared to the more common magnesium dies. By opting for 16-gauge (thinner) plates, I save money without sacrificing quality.
Sustainability: One of the things I love about using copper is that once I’m done with a plate, I can recycle it at a metal recycling facility. Not only does this make me feel better about my environmental impact, but I also get paid for the scrap metal—talk about a win-win!
How to Order Your Dies
Ordering dies is straightforward. Simply follow the instructions provided by your supplier. If you're interested in using Metal Magic, you can find their guidelines here.
Pro Tip!
If you’re new to foil printing, start with a small, simple design. This will help you get familiar with the process and your press before moving on to more complex projects.
Conclusion
Ordering custom dies for your hot foil press might seem daunting at first, but with the right supplier and a little knowledge, it’s a straightforward process.
Ready to dive deeper and master every aspect of hot foil printing?
Check out my online course, where I’ll guide you through everything you need to know to take your designs from concept to completion.