A pioneer in the packaging industry, Jan Steiner began her career by volunteering at her family’s company, Thoro Packaging in Southern California. She went on to lead the organization for many years before successfully selling the business after four decades in the industry. Today, Steiner continues to break new ground with Trade Works USA, a passion project she founded to … [Read more...] about Industry Influencer: Jan Steiner
February/March 2026
The State of Folding Cartons Today and What’s Ahead
By Jeff Peterson, executive director, FSEA The folding carton industry, like others, has experienced significant changes and opportunities over the last several years – with more changes predicted for the future. PostPress sat down with Emily Leonczyk, president of the Paperboard Packaging Council (PPC) to discuss the current folding carton industry and her thoughts on the … [Read more...] about The State of Folding Cartons Today and What’s Ahead
A Renaissance for Print and Embellishments: Sabine Lenz Talks Print Design in 2026
By Erin Judge, managing editor, PostPress Sabine Lenz, founder of PaperSpecs.com and an accomplished designer in her own right, has built an impressive social media following and established herself as a leading “print-loving” designer influencer. Passionate about educating designers on print and finishing, Sabine spoke with PostPress to share her perspective on where … [Read more...] about A Renaissance for Print and Embellishments: Sabine Lenz Talks Print Design in 2026
Innovation in Practice: J.S. McCarthy Brings a Mini-Maine Adventure to Life
By Erin Judge, managing editor, PostPress For J.S. McCarthy Packaging + Print (J.S. McCarthy), innovation is daily practice – woven into every thread of its rich 79-year history. The company, based in Augusta, Maine, has evolved from its roots in commercial printing into one of the largest specialized folding carton manufacturers in New England, serving the food, … [Read more...] about Innovation in Practice: J.S. McCarthy Brings a Mini-Maine Adventure to Life
How AI Is Rapidly Transforming Print and Finishing Workflows
By Erin Judge, managing editor, PostPress It’s hard to imagine a time when artificial intelligence (AI) only existed in science fiction novels and movies. Today, with the rise of open AI platforms and smartphone integration, the technology has become woven into nearly every aspect of daily life. While some fear AI will replace human jobs, others argue it will instead … [Read more...] about How AI Is Rapidly Transforming Print and Finishing Workflows
Small Boxes, Big Impact!
By Liz Stevens, writer, PostPress Good things, they say, come in small packages. Neenah, Glenmore Custom Print + Packaging, and Print Design Academy have proven that adage with a collaborative promotional project that combines small packages, evocative decoration, creative copy and more. Their project, “Folding Board Variety Pack,” features four little breakfast cereal boxes … [Read more...] about Small Boxes, Big Impact!
Smart Automation: Is the Finishing Line the Final Frontier?
By Mathieu Tremblay, managing director, IMPACK, Canada On a printing press or diecutter, a sheet is a sheet. It comes in a predictable, consistent size. It flows through the process the same way every time, but once the blank gets to the folder-gluer, variability exponentially increases. Each box type is processed differently, and each presents its own … [Read more...] about Smart Automation: Is the Finishing Line the Final Frontier?
Creative Paper Crafting Celebrates the Art of Finishing with Holiday Card
By Erin Judge, managing editor, PostPress In a world increasingly shaped by technology and AI, the artistry behind skilled diecutting, embossing and foiling continues to endure. Creative Paper Crafting of Portland, Oregon, has remained dedicated to preserving and advancing that tradition of craftsmanship since 1985. Founded by Joseph and Judy Smith alongside Judy’s mother, … [Read more...] about Creative Paper Crafting Celebrates the Art of Finishing with Holiday Card
Folder-Gluer Automation from Signature
By Erin Judge, contributing writer, PostPress Manual processes within the folding-gluing stage of production can present challenges for companies striving to maximize productivity. Many steps require operator intervention, which can disrupt workflow and limit throughput. Signature folder-gluers, distributed in North America by American International Machinery, Inc. (AIM), … [Read more...] about Folder-Gluer Automation from Signature
Association News
FSEA Launches NextGen Leaders Society New young professional group aims to attract, connect and develop emerging talent in the print and embellishment industry. The Foil & Specialty Effects Association (FSEA) is proud to announce the formation of the NextGen Leaders Society, a new initiative designed to attract, engage and empower young professionals within the … [Read more...] about Association News