Is there gold in hot stamping? Why is it so expensive?
May 23, 2025| Is there gold in hot stamping? Why is it so expensive?
In the field of packaging printing, hot stamping technology has always held a special position. Hot stamping is the most expensive process among the same specifications. Why is that?
The term 'gold' in hot stamping technology refers to a color effect with metallic luster, rather than real gold. Hot stamping is the process of adding a layer of film to the outermost layer, which requires customizing a mold with a hot stamping pattern shape, and then using the mold to heat it onto the bag. This technique not only presents traditional gold, but also allows for hot stamping of rich colors such as silver, red, and blue according to demand. Its unique metallic texture far surpasses ordinary printing techniques, whether it is UV printing or metallic printing, it is difficult to match in terms of glossiness and stereoscopic effect.
The high cost of hot stamping technology mainly stems from its unique production process. Firstly, it is necessary to customize a specialized hot stamping mold based on the design draft. This mold determines the shape and details of the final pattern, and the accuracy and material of the mold directly affect the hot stamping effect. The customization process itself requires exquisite technology and time cost. Secondly, during the hot stamping process, a thin film needs to be added to the surface of the substrate, which not only increases material costs but also puts higher demands on the hot stamping equipment and process parameters. The combination of dual costs makes hot stamping stand out in terms of price among many printing processes.
The reason why hot stamping technology is highly favored is also due to its strong adaptability. Whether it's high-end packaging made of aluminum foil, fashionable items made of transparent material, or simple kraft paper products, hot stamping can perfectly blend and give luxurious texture to different materials. This characteristic of not choosing partners makes it a versatile decorative tool in the hands of designers, widely used in various fields such as gift packaging, book covers, business cards, etc.
After the ordinary hot stamping process is completed, touching the pattern with your hand will feel a slight concave convex feeling, although not obvious, it increases the delicacy of the product in terms of touch. As a special form of hot stamping, the concave convex hot stamping process elevates the texture experience to a new level. It precisely controls the hot stamping pressure and mold shape to present a visible concave convex effect on the pattern, allowing for a three-dimensional sense without the need for touch, becoming a signature craftsmanship for high-end product packaging.
Of course, the hot stamping process is not perfect either. During long-term use, ordinary hot stamping patterns may peel off due to friction and other reasons, which has prompted the industry to continuously develop more durable hot stamping technologies. But it cannot be denied that hot stamping is still an irreplaceable choice when pursuing visual effects and quality.