Hot foil dies come in 3 different materials. It can be confusing for the client to know which option is best for the application they are looking for. We’re hoping this guide can help you decide.
Why choose a magnesium die?
Magnesium is a very lightweight material, so that’s the first thing that needs to be considered. This will mean it won’t be as durable as other materials so won’t last as long. It should be considered when the hot foiling or embossing job is a one-off. But typically magnesium can last up to 30,000 impressions.
What are the benefits of magnesium?
- Very lightweight – more cost-effective carriage costs
- Produced quicker than other materials
- Ideal for short to medium run jobs
- Perfect for smaller print areas
- Works well with embossing
- Can be ordered in various gauges (1.6mm, 3mm, 5mm, 6.35mm & 7mm)
Why choose a brass die?
We produce our brass hot foil dies using CNC engraving machines. No chemicals are used during their production, meaning they are the friendliest option for the environment. Our CNC machines are able to run overnight with little supervision so it’s rare to experience ‘brass downtime’.
What are the benefits of brass?
- Ideal for medium to long run jobs
- Good hardness, heat retention and foil transfer
- Good for the environment
- Made using CNC machines as opposed to chemical etching
- Suitable for flat foiling dies and reversal dies
- Can be used for embossers and debossers
- Creates a high definition finish
Why choose a copper die?
Copper hot foiling dies are becoming harder to source as die makers are settling for cheaper options. Copper has so many advantages it’s definitely still worth considering. It is the best material to choose for long run print jobs as it can stamp hundreds of thousands of impressions. It is also the best option for detailed work.
What are the benefits of copper?
- Very durable metal
- The best option for long run print jobs
- Excellent for intricate foil blocking work / small detail
- Heat conductivity is second to none
- Can offer detail CNC brass dies cannot get near
- Copper is the best choice as a security die
Dies Direct are a UK based hot foil dies maker with over 35 years experience. We produce over 40,000 hot foiling dies from our Head Office in Ipswich.
If you’re still having trouble picking out which hot foil dies to use on your next hot foil blocking or embossing job please don’t hesitate to email our studio with further questions.