Needing to get some prints done? Letterpress plates are the core element in transferring your design onto paper. Each type of letterpress plate has its own characteristics, suited for different kinds of projects. There are just two types of plates you need to know of, polymer letterpress plates and traditional metal plates. This is what makes each plate different and how you know the right one for your project.
Polymer Letterpress Plates
Polymer letterpress plates are versatile and efficient, making them an excellent choice for most letterpress projects. At Metallic Elephant, we produce in-house 0.95mm and 1.52mm foil-backed polymer plates. The “foil” is a thin backing that helps hold the exposed polymer in place, giving the plate stability during printing.
Benefits of Polymer Letterpress Plates:
- Transparent for Easy Registration: Our polymer letterpress plates are transparent, which allows for easy registration, ensuring your designs align perfectly every time.
- Superior Long-Run Capabilities: Made from Torelief, these plates are known for their long-lasting durability, making them ideal for projects with extended print runs.
- Emboss or Deboss: Despite being polymer, these plates are hard enough to emboss or deboss with, capable of holding the finest details. This means they can create texture and dimension in your print designs.
- Customisable: Multiple designs can be supplied on a single plate, which can then be easily cut with scissors. This provides flexibility in separating different elements of your design.
Our polymer letterpress plates are compatible with most letterpress machines, giving you flexibility no matter which equipment you use. We can also supply them with or without mounting tape, depending on your requirements.
Traditional Magnesium Letterpress Plates
For those looking for a traditional approach, our magnesium letterpress plates offer a classic option that provides long-lasting impressions. These plates are ideal for those who prefer the heritage and craftsmanship associated with metal plates.
Benefits of Magnesium Letterpress Plates:
- Crisp and Sharp Detailing: Our magnesium letterpress plates are precisely etched to provide crisp, sharp lines, with straight shoulders to ensure fine or bold detailing every time.
- Mounted or Unmounted Options: We offer mounted magnesium plates, securely mounted on moisture-resistant wood to a height of 0.918″ (23.3mm), ensuring they are sturdy and easy to handle. If you prefer unmounted plates, our 16g/1.63mm magnesium plates are etched to perfection by our skilled craftsmen.
- Speedy Turnaround: Order before 1pm, and we can etch and dispatch your letterpress blocks the very same day, helping you keep your project timelines on track.
Magnesium plates are perfect for achieving a deeper impression, adding a tactile element to your designs that is unmatched by other methods. Whether you’re printing business cards, stationery, or packaging, magnesium plates can create a bold and impactful result.
Choosing the Right Plate for Your Project
When deciding between polymer and magnesium letterpress plates, it’s essential to consider your project’s needs:
- For High Detail and Long Print Runs: Polymer plates are an excellent choice due to their durability and ability to hold fine detail. If your project involves extended print runs, the Torelief polymer plates will withstand the pressure and deliver consistent results.
- For a Traditional Touch and Deep Impression: Magnesium plates are ideal for projects that require a more classic look with deeper impressions. They’re great for adding texture and weight to your prints, which can create a more artisanal feel.
Both types of letterpress plates have their advantages. Your choice ultimately depends on the effect you want to achieve and the complexity of your design.
Guidelines for Supplying Artwork
To make sure your letterpress plates come out perfectly, it’s crucial to supply the right type of artwork. Here are our guidelines for artwork and ordering to help you prepare your files correctly.
General Guidelines for Artwork
- File Format: We accept artwork on film, paper, or as a digital file. Preferred digital formats include EPS, PDF, AI, or TIFF. If you’re supplying artwork on film, please ensure it is negative, right reading, and emulsion side up.
- Print Quality: If supplying a design on paper, use a laser printer, not an inkjet, as inkjet prints are unsuitable for this process. The design must be in black and white and as crisp as possible for the best results.
- Adobe Illustrator Files: If you’re working in Adobe Illustrator, supply your artwork as you want it to look, i.e., black on white and right reading. We can resize artwork as needed, so let us know if adjustments are necessary.
- Microsoft Word Files: Word files do not embed fonts, so if you’re using an unusual font, you’ll need to supply that font separately. Also, please provide a visual of your design by fax, email (scan), or post, so that we can accurately recreate what you expect.
If you need help with preparing your artwork, we have guides for using Adobe Illustrator, Photoshop, and Microsoft Word. Simply click the relevant link on our website for detailed instructions.
Key Takeaways for Choosing Letterpress Plates
- Polymer Plates: Best for projects that need high detail and long-run efficiency. Ideal for general use, with excellent flexibility and easy customisation.
- Magnesium Plates: Best for projects that benefit from a deeper impression and classic craftsmanship. Ideal for those who want a tactile, bold finish that evokes traditional printing techniques.
When choosing letterpress plates, think about the qualities you need—whether it’s longevity, fine detail, or the heritage of traditional craftsmanship. Our in-house team at Metallic Elephant is always here to guide you, and we offer quick turnarounds to keep your creative projects moving.
Reflecting on Tradition and Craftsmanship in Modern Printing
In a time where a lot of what we use is mass-produced, the value of artisanal techniques like letterpress printing continues to shine. The choice of letterpress plates plays a vital role in ensuring the quality and character of your prints. By going for high-quality polymer or magnesium letterpress plates, you are investing in a craft that adds unique texture, authenticity, and elegance to your printed materials.
If you need more guidance on selecting the right plate for your project, don’t hesitate to reach out to us at Metallic Elephant. We’re here to help you!