Weddings Glossary of Terms

At Rock Paper Scissors we love paper goods, and we know you're here because you love them too. For your guests, their invitation is the first impression of what's to come, and can be a fabulous opportunity to showcase your style. While premium printing is surely a delight to the senses, it's also the single most influential factor as to the price of your suite, so we believe that knowledge is power when you're making your invitation choices.

Digital Printing

Digital printing (flat printing) is similar to printing on your home laser printer, but way better. This is ideal for a more casual wedding, or for couples on a tight timeline or budget. A printer uses thousands of tiny ink dots to form letters and designs on the paper.

Pro Tip! For the most gorgeous flat digital prints, we recommend 100% cotton savoy paper.

Engraving

Engraving and letterpress are the two oldest printing methods we offer, dating to the 1500’s! Engraving involves creating a copper or steel plate that’s etched with your invite’s text and design. Ink is smoothed over the plate and pressed into the paper with a machine providing extreme pressure around the letters and design-- approximately 3,000lbs. of pressure!

COMBINES W/FOIL? No
PRICE POINT: $$$

Letterpress

Letterpress involves creating and carving a metal plate, leaving only your invitation design behind. The plate is often hand-set with the text and pattern, then pressed into the paper. The design is indented on the front of the invite and slightly raised on the back, creating a luscious texture. Each additional ink color increases the price.

COMBINES W/FOIL? Yes
PRICE POINT: $$$

Screen Printing

Screen printing is the process of hand-mixed ink pressed through a fine mesh screen. This method works best for bright, flat and opaque colors, creating the whitest of white and the brightest of bright in print.

COMBINES W/FOIL? No
PRICE POINT: $$

Pro Tip! For kraft paper with white ink, screen printing is your best option.

Thermography

Thermography is a more affordable alternative to engraving. Ink and resin powder are heated and fused to create raised lettering.

COMBINES W/FOIL: No
PRICE POINT: $$