Edge painting, edge coloring, colored edges – whatever you call it, is the hottest trend in business card design. The process is not new by any means, but it’s definitely getting a lot of exposure these days and with good reason – it makes a huge impact. When using engraving ink for this process you can expect a shimmery edge on metallics or a flat, matte effect on colored edges. For the uber-shiny look metallic foil edges are the way to go. Double the wow-factor when combining with other special print techniques like letterpress or embossing.
One thing to keep in mind, to achieve the biggest bang for your buck make sure to spec a heavy cover weight paper – think 130# cover or higher. Here are some of the best examples we’ve seen of this trend. Have you used edge painting recently on a project? Drop us a note and tell us what you think.
Calling cards – Sarah Drake Chicago
Stitch Design & Co. printed on Crane’s Crest
Silver foil edge & letterpress by publicide