Gold Foiling and Blind Embossing, Explained
Walk into our workshop and you will find a foiling press that would be recognised by a bookbinder from a century ago. Gold foiling and blind embossing remain the definitive way to letter and decorate a fine binding.
Gold foiling
Gold foil stamping uses a heated brass type or die to press a thin metallic foil into the cover material. The result is the crisp, gleaming lettering you see on the spine of a bound thesis or a family Bible. We foil in gold as standard, and can also work in silver, black, white and coloured foils where the job calls for it.
Blind embossing
Blind embossing uses the same die, pressed without foil. It leaves a subtle, recessed impression in the leather or cloth — understated and elegant, and particularly beautiful on leather. Names, dates and small crests all take blind embossing well.
What we can letter
- Thesis spines and covers (author, degree, year — to university specifications)
- Books and guest books we bind
- Notebooks and journals purchased from our shop
- Presentation boxes, folders and menu covers
- Your own books and bibles, where the material is suitable
Lettering is priced by the job — ring (09) 6206 747 or email [email protected] with what you have in mind and we will quote.