FSEA News

UV Curing Technologies Panel Added to Print Embellishment Conference Schedule

March 18, 2024

The 2024 Print Embellishment Conference, sponsored by the Foil & Specialty Effects Association (FSEA), PostPress Magazine and Amplify Print, will be held April 9-11 at the Delta Hotels Dallas Southlake in Dallas, Texas. To address the growing area of UV curing technologies for coatings, printing and other embellishments, three industry experts will be on hand for a panel discussion.

Panel members Rod Franson, Carlson Print; Tim Cain, Breit Technologies; and Chris Hogge, Harris & Bruno, will share their experiences with UV and UV LED curing technologies for print and print embellishment applications.

The discussion will include applications in which UV curing technologies are utilized; the advantages and disadvantages for print embellishment; and its growth in offset, flexo and digital print, as well as with special embellishment technologies, such as cold foil transfer, Cast & Cure, specialty UV coatings, and digital inkjet foils and coatings.

Other programming scheduled during the event addresses key topics and market segments of the print embellishment industry, from packaging (cartons and labels) and trading cards to greeting cards, direct mail and more. It also includes expert presentations on digital embellishment trends, sustainable print design and data from a new recyclability study targeting metallic decorating processes.

Over 20 suppliers in the print embellishment/finishing industry will exhibit at the Supplier Trade Fair and Opening Reception on the first evening of the Print Embellishment Conference and during an extended lunch the following day. Virtually all of the leading print embellishment suppliers of foils, engravings, machinery and coatings will be exhibiting, with the full list of exhibitors found on the website.

For more information – including detailed session descriptions, speaker biographies, travel information and easy registration – visit www.fsea.com/print-embellishment-conference or call 785.271.5816.

Registration Now Open for the Print Embellishment Conference

February 13, 2024

Press release submitted on behalf of the Foil & Specialty Effects Association

The 2024 Print Embellishment Conference, sponsored by the Foil & Specialty Effects Association (FSEA) and Amplify Print, will be held April 9 – 11 at the Delta Hotels Dallas Southlake in Dallas, Texas. Registration is open, and early bird rates are available.

The conference offers a supplier trade fair, educational programming to address new technology and trends in the industry, and an awards reception where the recipients of the 31^st Annual FSEA Gold Leaf Awards will be honored. Conference attendees also will attend a plant tour with stops at Brodnax 21C Printers, where attendees will see both cold foil transfer and digital foil and coating technology, and Xplor Group, which specializes in laminating and spot and flood UV coating.

Networking: A supplier trade fair and welcome reception kick off the event, providing attendees with the opportunity to discover what’s new from supplier partners and network with peers. Peer exchanges continue throughout the conference, with programming designed to let attendees share their challenges and find solutions from others in the industry.

Educational Opportunities: From professional keynote speakers to print industry experts, educational content aims to give attendees knowledge that can be used to improve their operations. Programming will include Vicki Stull discussing the power of touch, Adam Peek speaking on sustainable packaging and Sabine Lenz educating the audience on trends in print and embellishments in 2024. The conference also will include several panel discussions on topics that include the importance of technical knowledge when selling embellishments, the latest technology and cost savings with foil stamping and embossing engravings, and trends in the trading card industry.

The Foil & Specialty Effects Association (FSEA) provides a wide range of resources to help print finishing companies remain profitable today and into the future. From tangible benefits offered through cost-saving programs to educational opportunities (conferences, webinars, case studies and articles) to green initiatives proving the sustainability of foil decorated paper/board, the FSEA strives to provide its members with ideas, data and solutions to grow in today’s marketplace. For more information, visit www.fsea.com.

Amplify is an exhibition and educational program spotlighting the print finishing value chain, held for the first time in May of 2022. The event welcomed print and packaging designers, commercial printers, print finishers, binders, mailers and creatives to connect with the equipment manufacturers and suppliers to those industries. From the exhibit hall to the educational program and beyond, attendees networked with all the key players in the finishing cycle, learned best practices, discovered emerging technologies and heard real-world success stories. The Amplify expo will return in 2025.

FSEA Association News – Nov/Dec 2023

December 11, 2023

FSEA Sponsors Successful Breakfast at Printing United

During the week of the Printing United Expo, FSEA and its Digital Embellishment Alliance (DEA) sponsored a breakfast on the second day of the show entitled “Improving Profitability Through Digital Embellishments.” The breakfast brought in a near sold out crowd with over 50 attendees. Moderated by Jeff Peterson, FSEA executive director, the program included a panel with different perspectives from the digital embellishment industry. The panel included Steven Roberts, Elite Print Finishing; Kevin Abergel, Taktiful; and Michael Aumann, Kurz Transfer Products. Peterson asked the panel several questions related to digital embellishments, with each panelist having the opportunity to answer.

“Having the perspective of each of our experts provided great insight on the growing digital embellishment landscape,” Peterson said. “We had someone from the machine side, a current consultant with digital embellishment and an end-user of digital embellishment equipment.”

Print Embellishment Conference 2024 Dates Announced

FSEA recently announced the date of its 2024 Print Embellishment Conference that will take place April 9-11 at the Delta Hotels Marriott – Dallas Southlake in Dallas, Texas. The conference will begin with an afternoon of industry market updates that will include a Digital Embellishment Alliance (DEA) update, a sustainability and metallic decorating update, and others. Industry updates will be followed by the opening reception and Supplier Trade Fair. The second day will be a full day of programming on the embellishments for print and will end with the FSEA Gold Leaf Awards reception. For more details and hotel information, visit www.fsea.com and click on Events.

FSEA Holds Second Amplify Roadshow in 2023

After a successful first Amplify Roadshow in Kansas City, Missouri, in September, FSEA and APTech took the next one on the road back east to Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. It took place at Yards Brewing Company in downtown Philadelphia on November 9. As with the first event, it was a great evening for creatives, finishers/printers, and industry suppliers to mingle and learn with others on the latest in finishing and embellishments.

The Amplify Roadshow featured speaker was the “Guru of Print” David Drucker, founder and CEO of highresolution. Drucker shared with the audience several of his package and print projects for high-end brands that included specialty finishes and embellishments. In addition, Jeff Peterson, FSEA executive director, discussed several of the sustainability projects FSEA is working on.

Universal Engraving, Inc. and Infinity Foils, Inc. were sponsors of the food for the event, Metal Magic and Liberty Foils sponsored the bar, and Scodix sponsored the creation and embellished postcard used to market the Amplify Roadshow event. Additional tabletop exhibitors included Duplo USA, Sappi Paper, Univacco, K Laser Technology, STM Steuer, and ITW ShineMark.

Additional Amplify Roadshows will be scheduled leading up to the next Amplify Print Expo set for June 10-12, 2025 at the Donald E. Stephens Convention Center in Chicago, Illinois.

Entry Forms Available for FSEA 31st Annual Gold Leaf Awards

The Foil & Specialty Effects Association (FSEA) has announced entry forms now are available for the 31st Annual Gold Leaf Awards. The competition, which has continued to expand and grow, recognizes embellished print featuring foil stamping, embossing, digital foil and coatings, cold foil transfer, specialty UV coatings, special diecuts and more.

“We are amazed by the number of entries we receive each year from all over the world,” said Dianna Brodine, FSEA assistant director. “The creativity and use of specialty finishes on all types of printed materials is astonishing.”

To enter, visit www.fsea.com and click on Awards.

Start 2024 Saving Money with FSEA Grainger and Partnership Savings Programs

FSEA members receive significant discounts through two partnership programs that can save companies thousands of dollars in a calendar year. The FSEA Grainger Discount Program provides discounts on commonly ordered Grainger products, including savings on categories like safety, material handling, cleaning, hardware and more.

Partnership® offers FSEA members discounts on all types of shipping needs. Specifically, FSEA members can save up to 45% on FedEx Next Day shipping and 25% off FedEx Ground shipments.

“We are seeing FSEA members have their membership dues paid back 10 times or more with our savings programs,” said FSEA Executive Director Jeff Peterson. “I encourage any of our members and others to contact us if you are not already signed up.”

For more details, visit www.fsea.com and click on Membership Benefits.

FSEA Announces Winners of 30th Annual Gold Leaf Awards

June 15, 2023

The Topeka, Kansas-based Foil & Specialty Effects Association (FSEA) has announced the honorees in its 30th Annual FSEA Gold Leaf Awards Competition. Pearls are the traditional gift for married couples celebrating their 30th anniversary, but the FSEA celebrated with Gold, Silver and Bronze!

“Our FSEA Gold Leaf Awards Competition showcases how embellishments have become a catalyst in the printing industry,” stated FSEA Executive Director Jeff Peterson. “The creativity and technology used in the pieces we receive continue to amaze us every year, from greeting cards and book covers to folding cartons and wine labels.”

A record number of entries were received from countries around the world, including the US, Canada, India, Italy, Switzerland, Poland, Denmark, Japan, South Africa and Taiwan. Gold, Silver and Bronze winners were honored in 47 categories during a reception held on Tuesday, June 6, at The Print Embellishment Conference in Indianapolis, Indiana.

As in 2022, two Best of Show honorees were revealed – one awarded to the best digitally finished piece and one to the entry displaying the best use of conventional finishing techniques.

Gravure Choquet, Montreal, Quebec, Canada, was awarded the Best of Show: Best Use of Foil and Embossing for “RE/MAX.” Originally entered in the category of Best Use of Foil/Embossing – Miscellaneous Product, the team at Gravure Choquet had quite the task – take an already impressive, framed award that its client, RE/MAX Real Estate, had been using for years and make it even better. More than 35 versions of the award were manufactured. Each framed 20” x 14” award received between eight to 16 passes through the presses, with several passes of foil, embossing in register for the client’s logo and diecuts with perfect registration for the different categories of the certificates. A filler was integrated behind the certificates to create weight and depth between the two layers, with all the components assembled in a frame and integrated in a presentation box.

Best of Show: Best Use of Digital Embellishments was awarded to Post Press Specialties, Independence, Missouri, for Willy. Originally entered in the category for Best Use of Digital Foil (Self Promotion), the team at Post Press Specialties created the piece to demonstrate the company’s capabilities. The graphics were created in Adobe Illustrator, with small dots of opaque foil intermingled to create an image resembling a lithographic photo, producing foil halftone dots in different foil colors in a way none of the team members had ever seen before. “Willy” was created on a leftover scrap piece of board that the team laminated, and the project was created in an afternoon with fewer than 10 copies made.

The competition evaluates submissions that utilize a wide range of specialty finishing techniques, from foil stamping and embossing to specialty coating, film laminating, laser cutting, diecutting and cold foil applications. Submissions come in a variety of formats, including greeting cards, folding cartons, labels, promotional pieces, calendars and more.

Award winners in the 30th Annual FSEA Gold Leaf Awards, along with the categories in which the submissions won, are listed in this press release. To view photos of the pieces submitted by the Bronze, Silver and Gold honorees, visit www.fsea.com.

The 2023 categories and winners:

Best Use of Foil/Embossing – Hardback Book Cover
Gold: Yumi, Lakeside Book Company, Crawfordsville, IN
Silver: Pandora, Jostens, Clarksville, TN
Bronze: Polaris 2022, Jostens, Clarksville, TN

Best Use of Foil/Embossing – Softback Book Cover
Gold: Swiat Druku (The World of Printing), Multifol Uszlachetnianie Druku (UE),Kraków, Poland
Silver: Superman, Gravure Choquet, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
Bronze: Dallas Country Club, Performance Specialty Service, Dallas, TX

Best Use of Foil/Embossing – Greeting Card (Creative)
Gold: Thanksgiving Gratitude, The Occasions Group, North Mankato, MN
Silver: Champagne Fireworks, BrightMarks LLC, Lenexa, KS
Bronze: Lafayette 148 Holiday Card, highresolution printing and packaging,
Manalapan, NJ

Best Use of Foil/Embossing – Greeting Card (Difficult)
Gold: Happy Birthday Batman, Hallmark Cards, Inc., Lawrence, KS
Silver: 50’s the New 30’s, BrightMarks LLC, Lenexa, KS
Bronze: Part ICON Superman, Hallmark Cards, Inc., Lawrence, KS

Best Use of Foil/Embossing – Greeting Card (Self Promo)
Gold: Gietz New Year Greeting Card 2023, Gietz AG, Gossau, Switzerland
Silver: Thumbelina Christmas Card, Dreyer Kliche, Copenhagen, Denmark
Bronze: Gravure Choquet Christmas card, Gravure Choquet, Montreal, Quebec, Canada

Best Use of Foil/Embossing – Folding Carton (Creative)
Gold: Ciao Vince Camuto, Diamond Packaging, Rochester, NY
Silver: Surly Darkness Box, Studio on Fire, St. Paul, MN
Bronze: Sheer Science: Plexaderm Skincare Folding Carton, RRD Packaging Solutions, Durham, NC

Best Use of Foil/Embossing – Folding Carton (Difficult)
Gold: Lord of the Rings Box Set, Studio on Fire, St. Paul, MN
Silver: Luxe Pack Promotional, Thoro Packaging, a Company of the Autajon Group, Corona, CA
Bronze: Clinique Folding Carton, McLean Packaging Corporation, Moorestown, NJ

Best Use of Foil/Embossing – Folding Carton (Self Promo)
Gold: MCD 50th Anniversary Unfolding Box, MCD, Inc., Madison, WI
Silver: BOP Holiday Gift Box & Card Combo, Blue Ocean Press, Syracuse, NY
Bronze: Toad Box, Dreyer Kliche, Copenhagen

Best Use of Foil/Embossing – Rigid Box (Creative)
Gold: Hard Cover The Awakening (Wynn Hotel), Gravure Choquet, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
Silver: Union Horse Anniversary Release Box, BrightMarks LLC, Lenexa, KS
Bronze: NAPCO USA – “The Count” Spirits Box & Bottle Label, NAPCO USA, Sparta, NC

Best Use of Foil/Embossing – Rigid Box (Difficult)
Gold: boxes No. 2, KURZ Transfer Products, Huntersville, NC
Silver: Three Sisters Apothecary Autumn Gift Set, Pacific Southwest Containers LLC, Modesto, CA
Bronze: NAPCO USA – “Black Cask” Spirits Box & Bottle Label, NAPCO USA, Sparta, NC

Best Use of Foil/Embossing/Diecut – Self Promotion
Gold: Diamond Packaging 2023 Calendar, Diamond Packaging, Rochester, NY
Silver: Bigger, Bolder, Brighter-Look Book 2023, Jostens, Clarksville, TN
Bronze: Putting Your Pieces Together Binder, On Line Bindery, Richmond, CA
Machinery Suppliers: Bobst, Sakurai

Best Use of Foil/Embossing/Diecut – Self Promotion (Industry Supplier)
Gold: Univacco – Rebuild Your Imagination, Univacco Foils, Tainan City, Taiwan
Silver: La Bellezza Salverá il Mondo (eng. Beauty will save the World), Carlo Gasperini & C., Prato, Italy
Bronze: Deck the Halls with Neenah, Neenah, Alpharetta, GA

Best Use of Foil/Embossing/Diecut – Self Promotion (Holiday)
Gold: Baugh Christmas carton, Baugh Graphic Finishing House, Indianapolis, IN
Silver: MCD 2023 Desktop Calendar, MCD, Inc., Madison, WI
Bronze: KURZ Transfer Products 2022 Holiday Cards, Subtle Impressions, Inc., Gastonia, NC

Best Use of Foil/Embossing – Presentation Folder
Gold: EPF – E3D Self Promotion, Elite Print Finishing, Burlington, NC
Silver: Change the Way you View Folders, Folderworks, North Mankato, MN
Bronze: Hillwood Folder, Performance Specialty Service, Dallas, TX

Best Use of Foil/Embossing – Client Promotion/Brochure
Gold: CARTES Client Promotion Brochure, CARTES, Moglia MN and Italy
Silver: Maggie Rose, Team Concept Printing & Thermography, Inc. , Carol Stream, IL
Bronze: Mother Earth Amplify Poster, Carlson Print Group, Eden Prairie, MN

Best Use of Foil/Embossing – Label (Digitally Printed)
Gold: Ten Vintage “VENDEMMIE”, SOVEMEC Stampa Company, Nola, Italy
Silver: Arana (The Silver Spider), CARTES, Moglia MN and Italy
Bronze: Cantilever, Multi-Color Corporation North America Wine & Spirits, Napa, CA

Best Use of Foil/Embossing – Label (Creative)
Gold: Vera Volente Elegance, MCC Label Paarl South Africa, Western Cape, South Africa
Silver: Black Carbon – Professional Grade Seasoning Blend, Blue Ocean Press, Fort Lauderdale, FL
Bronze: HOPE Sauvignon Blanc, Bay Tech Label, St Petersburg, FL

Best Use of Foil/Embossing – Label (Difficult)
Gold: Raymond, Multi-Color Corporation North America Wine & Spirits, Napa, CA
Silver: Mr. Black Starward Front, Multi Color Corporation Australia, South Australia
Bronze: Block Head, Multi-Color Corporation North America Wine & Spirits, Napa, CA

Best Use of Foil/Embossing – Label (Self Promotion)
Gold: Whiskey label, Carlo Gasperini & C., Prato, Italy
Silver: Gietzerollo Liquor, Gietz AG, Gossau, Switzerland
Bronze: Thumbelina Nature labels, Dreyer Kliche, Copenhagen, Denmark

Best Use of Foil/Embossing – Business Card/Stationery
Gold: On Line Bindery Business Cards, On Line Bindery, Richmond, CA
Silver: Tequilia Brand Ambassador cards, Print Panther Direct
Bronze: Sweet Notes, DataGraphic, Commack, NY

Best Use of Foil/Embossing – Announcements/Invitation (Creative)
Gold: Acrylic Wedding Invitation, The Prettiest Pixel, Shawnee, KS
Silver: Flexjet Invitation, DataGraphic, Commack, NY
Bronze: Lawrence, Bella Figura for Boxcar Press, Syracuse, NY

Best Use of Foil/Embossing – Announcements/Invitation (Difficult)
Gold: Florence, Bella Figura for Boxcar Press, Syracuse, NY
Silver: Class of 2023 Life School, Performance Specialty Service, Dallas, TX
Bronze: Foil on Deckle Edge, The Prettiest Pixel, Shawnee, KS

Best Use of Foil/Embossing – Calendar (Industry Supplier)
Gold: Year of the Rabbit 2023 Calendar, K Laser Technology (USA) Co., Ltd., Santa Ana, CA
Silver: Multi-Dimensional KURZ Calendar, LPI – Letterhead Press, New Berlin, WI
Bronze: Kaname, Sakurai, Schaumburg, IL

Best Use of Foil/Embossing – Calendar
Gold: Tokyo Bay Fish Calendar 2023, Ichikudo Printing Co, Ltd., Tokyo, Japan
Silver: Diamond Packaging 2023 Calendar, Diamond Packaging, Rochester, NY
Bronze: Globe 2023 Calendar, Globe Die Cutting, Metuchen, NJ

Best Use of Foil/Embossing – Direct Mailer
Gold: Parkland Direct – Christmas 2022 Envelope, Parkland Direct, Forest, VA
Silver: Levin Rinke Direct Mail Die Cut Door Postcard, SunDance, Orlando, FL
Bronze: Parkland Direct – Saguara National Park Envelope, Parkland Direct, Forest, VA

Best Use of Foil/Embossing – Miscellaneous Product
Gold: Re/Max, Gravure Choquet, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
Silver: Waco Police Padded Document Holder, K & W Finishing, Baltimore, MD
Bronze: Wired Productions: The Black Label Collection, RRD Packaging Solutions, Durham, NC

Best Use of Foil/Embossing – Miscellaneous Product (Industry Supplier)
Gold: BEAUTY, H+M, Charlotte, NC
Silver: BOOK Whiskey, KURZ Transfer Products, Huntersville, NC
Bronze: Tampolamina, GTO, Srl, Casalgrande RE, Italy

Best Use of Holographics
Gold: 2023 Super Bowl Stadium Program, Hazen Paper Company, Holyoke, MA
Silver: Hazen Alabaster Holojet®, Hazen Paper Company, Holyoke, MA
Bronze: Father’s Day, Leanin’ Tree, Boulder, CO

Best Use of Embossing (Blind)
Gold: NFL Sleeve, DataGraphic, Commack, NY
Silver: Flower Garden, Dreyer Kliche, Copenhagen, Denmark
Bronze: Oscar de la Renta Bella Bouquet, Diamond Packaging, Rochester, NY

Best Use of Embossing (Registered)
Gold: Iconic Box, Studio on Fire, St. Paul, MN
Silver: Diamond Packaging 2023 Calendar, Diamond Packaging, Rochester, NY
Bronze: Special Edition 12″ Vinyl Gothic Luxury, Super Lustre Graphique

Best Use of Overprinting Foil
Gold: Unidisc 12″ Vinyl, Gravure Choquet, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
Silver: Dad, Hallmark Cards, Inc., Lawrence, KS
Bronze: Pokémon Arceus VSTAR Ultra-Premium Collection, RRD Packaging Solutions, Durham, NC

Best Use of Refractive Foil (Micro-etched)
Gold: Analog x Digital, H+M USA, Charlotte, NC
Silver: Avrae, Multi-Color Corporation North America Wine & Spirits, Napa, CA
Bronze: Chateau Univacco, Carlo Gasperini & C., Prato, Italy

Best Use of Cold Foil (Carton or Label)
Gold: Hydroxycut Advanced, Diamond Packaging, Rochester, NY
Silver: Abercrombie & Fitch Away Weekend (Woman), Diamond Packaging, Rochester, NY
Bronze: Metamorphia, Overnight Labels, A Premium Label & Packaging Solutions Company, Deer Park, NY

Best Use of Cold Foil (Promotion or Brochure)
Gold: Wallace Carlson Vinfoil Promo, Wallace Carlson, Minnetonka, MN
Silver: Las Vegas Skyline, Kenmore Envelope, Richmond, VA
Bronze: Burgopak x Windles Unicorn, Burgopak, London, UK

Best Use of Digital Foil (Self Promotion)
Gold: Willy, Post Press Specialties, Independence, MO
Silver: EPF – E3D Self Promotion, Elite Print Finishing, Burlington, NC
Bronze: Hunters Original artwork limited edition prints, Print Panther Direct, Ontario, Canada

Best Use of Digital Foil (Carton)
Gold: Titleist Masters VIP Boxes, Curtis Packaging, Sandy Hook, CT
Silver: Double Lit, Elite Print Finishing, Burlington, NC
Bronze: D9 Gummies Tuck Top Boxes, The Anstadt Company, York, PA

Best Use of Digital Foil (Varnish Adhesive)
Gold: 2022 Las Vegas Raiders Season Ticket Books, Consolidated Printing, Van Buren, AR
Silver: Konica Minolta Shine and Evolution Direct Mail Campaign, Print Panther Direct, Ontario, Canada
Bronze: Sylvamo Papers Promotional Sheet, LPI – Letterhead Press, New Berlin, WI

Best Use of Specialty UV Coating – Screen (Raised, Textured or Glitter)
Gold: Special Edition 12″ Vinyl Gothic Luxury, Super Lustre Graphique, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
Silver: Spring Hill College Seek More Brochure, SunDance, Orlando, FL
Bronze: that’s our nature, Jostens, Clarksville, TN

Best Use of Laminating Film (Holographic, Soft Touch or Other Decorative Film)
Gold: Legacy, Jostens, Clarksville, TN
Silver: 12″ Jacket Unidisc, R&L Lamination, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
Bronze: Change the Way You View Folders, Folderworks, North Mankato, MN

Best Use of Special Diecut
Gold: Metallic Snowflakes, The Occasions Group, North Mankato, MN
Silver: Rev it Up, Hallmark Cards, Inc. Cards, Inc., Lawrence, KS
Bronze: On Line Bindery Wine Bottle Brochure, On Line Bindery, Richmond, CA

Best Use of Laser Cutting (Decorative)
Gold: KOVAL Dry Gin, Paragon Label (A Resouce LabelGroup Company), Petaluma, CA
Silver: Serene Forest, The Occasions Group, North Mankato, MN
Bronze: We are Back, Jostens, Clarksville, TN

Best Use of Letterpress
Gold: Stout Holiday Cards, Studio on Fire, St. Paul, MN
Silver: Amoret, Bella Figura for Boxcar Press, Syracuse, NY
Bronze: Love Embraced, The Occasions Group, North Mankato, MN

Best Use of Film Casting (Cast & Cure™)
Gold: Indian Life by David White, Visions, Inc., Brooklyn Park, MN
Silver: Great Nations Freaky Friday – Vapor Ringz, Rose City Label, Portland, OR
Bronze: Perennial Artisan Ales – Double Entendre, Cursive, Mason, OH

Best Use of Unique Fold
Gold: Luxe Pack Promotional, Thoro Packaging, a Company of the Autajon Group, Corona, CA
Silver: Happy New Year 2023! (Molly McCoy Self Promotion Piece), Molly McCoy Graphic Design, Oakland, CA
Bronze: Christmas Carol Bulb Fold Out, Team Concept Printing & Thermography, Inc., Carol Stream, IL

Best Use of Unique Binding
Gold: Sagittaria Calendar, Carlo Gasperini & C., Prato, Italy
Silver: Lucky Bag, Jostens, Clarksville, TN
Bronze: Poor Richard’s Press Creative Toolkit, Poor Richard’s Press, San Luis Obispo, CA

Best Use of Sustainable Design
Gold: Cold Transfer KPS slim (patent pending) Packaging, KURZ Transfer Products, Huntersville, NC
Silver: HOMETOWN HERO Infused Gummies (+POP), Hippo Premium Packaging, San Diego, CA
Bronze: Big Picture Farm Gift Box, Diamond Packaging, Rochester, NY

Best Use of Transfer Metallization
Gold: Hazen Paper 2023 Calendar “Chariots of Fire”, Hazen Paper Company, Holyoke, MA
Silver: Parkland Direct – City Scene Vector Envelope, Parkland Direct, Forest, VA
Bronze: Eilish No 2, Diamond Packaging, Rochester, NY

The Foil & Specialty Effects Association (FSEA) provides a wide range of resources to help companies remain profitable today and into the future. From cost-saving programs and educational opportunities to green initiatives proving the sustainability of foil decorated paper/board, the FSEA strives to provide its members with ideas, resources and solutions to grow in today’s marketplace.

To learn more, visit www.fsea.com.

Duplo USA Set to Exhibit at the 2023 IPMA, FSEA Print Embellishment Conference and Canon Event

May 22, 2023

Duplo USA Corporation, a Santa Ana, California-based provider of print finishing solutions, is set to exhibit at the IPMA Educational Conference, FSEA Print Embellishment Conference and Canon Summit – all happening in June.

Duplo will be in booth #205 at the IPMA Annual Educational Conference showcasing all-in-one finishing with the DC-618 Slitter/Cutter/Creaser and foiled embellishments with the DFL-500 Foil/Laminator. IPMA is scheduled for June 4-8 at the Hyatt Regency Coconut Point Resort in Bonita Springs, Florida.

The Foil & Specialty Effects Association is sponsoring the Print Embellishment Conference June 5-7 at the Sheraton Indianapolis Hotel at Keystone Crossing in Indianapolis, Indiana. Attendees are invited to visit the Duplo table to learn about on-demand spot UV and foil solutions.

Duplo is a proud Platinum Sponsor of the 2023 Canon Summit taking place June 19-21 in Nashville, Tennessee. The Duplo team will be onsite demonstrating precision finishing with the DC-618 Slitter/Cutter/Creaser.

To see Duplo’s complete list of upcoming events, visit www.duplousa.com/events.

Registration Now Open for the Print Embellishment Conference

March 15, 2023

The 2023 Print Embellishment Conference, sponsored by the Foil & Specialty Effects Association (FSEA) and Amplify Print, will be held June 5-7 at the Sheraton Indianapolis Hotel at Keystone Crossing in Indianapolis, Indiana. Registration is open, and early bird rates are available.

The conference offers a supplier trade fair, educational programming to address new technology and trends in the industry, and an awards reception where the recipients of the 30th Annual FSEA Gold Leaf Awards will be honored. Conference attendees also will attend a plant tour at Baugh Graphic Finishing House, one of the largest print finishing facilities in the US.

Networking: A supplier trade fair and welcome reception kick off the event, providing attendees with the opportunity to discover what’s new from supplier partners and network with peers. Peer exchanges continue throughout the conference, with programming designed to let attendees share their challenges and find solutions from others in the industry.

Educational Opportunities: From professional keynote speakers to print industry experts, educational content aims to give attendees knowledge that can be used to improve their operations. Programming will include discussions on embellishments for cannabis, wine and spirits, greeting cards, trading cards, direct mail and more. Processes covered will include hot, cold and digital metallic decorating, as well as specialty coatings.

Supplier Access: More than 25 industry supplier companies are expected to be represented throughout the event, both at the tabletop exhibits and in panel discussions, providing immediate access to the people most able to answer questions about operational challenges and the latest technologies.

For more information – including detailed session descriptions, speaker biographies, travel information and easy registration – visit www.fsea.com/print-embellishment-conference or call 785.271.5816.

The Foil & Specialty Effects Association (FSEA) provides a wide range of resources to help print finishing companies remain profitable today and into the future. From tangible benefits offered through cost-saving programs to educational opportunities (conferences, webinars, case studies and articles) to green initiatives proving the sustainability of foil decorated paper/board, the FSEA strives to provide its members with ideas, data and solutions to grow in today’s marketplace. For more information, visit www.fsea.com.

FSEA Forms Digital Embellishment Alliance

September 8, 2022

The Foil & Specialty Effects Association (FSEA) has announced the formation of the Digital Embellishment Alliance (DEA) – a community developed to create educational and communication opportunities directed to the growing digital embellishment segment of the printing industry.

“We are excited to welcome the Digital Embellishment Alliance as part of our mission under FSEA,” stated Jeff Peterson, FSEA Executive Director. “We believe by having a focused Advisory Committee in the area of digital embellishments, we can create educational programming and membership benefits specific to this growing segment of the print and packaging industry as more designers, commercial printers and print finishers utilize digital enhancement processes to add value to their print projects.”

The DEA will provide targeted benefits related to accelerating the mainstream adoption of digital embellishment technologies. This will include programming for this specialized area at FSEA events – such as the recently introduced Amplify Print event and other FSEA conferences and meetings – standardization initiatives, designer outreach, trend analysis and brand education.

“In the world of digital print embellishments, we see a market that is on the cusp of going mainstream but still suffers from an awareness issue at the brand and designer level,” explained Gene Petrie, chair of the FSEA Board of Directors. “A key aim of the DEA is to help users and manufacturers educate their customers and increase understanding of how these digital embellishment technologies can help brands increase their print ROI.”

A website will provide information and resources dedicated to the Alliance and its mission. DEA members also will have access to tangible benefits offered by FSEA, including the FSEA Grainger Discount Program, which can save members thousands of dollars on commonly used supplies and equipment; shipping discounts through PartnerShip^®; and a DEA HelpLinks email community, where members can ask technical questions to others involved with digital embellishment technology.

Membership applications for the Digital Embellishment Alliance will open soon. For more information, contact Jeff Peterson at [email protected] or call 785.271.5816.

Special Diecuts Showcase the Yule Log Christmas Card

December 9, 2021

By Cienna Sorell, writer, PostPress

The Yule Log has been a comforting inspiration since its debut in 1966. The film of the burning yule log ran in New York for 23 years – up until 1989 – on the television network WPIX. The Yule Log was brought back to television due to unanimous wishes from a grieving nation after the attack on the Twin Towers in 2001, and ever since the film has been shown on WPIX on Christmas Day.

All American Labeling & Packaging, Dublin, California, created the Yule Log Christmas Card during the winter of 2020. After such a difficult year, the company wanted to make its annual gift to its customers really stand out with a unique concept. Leslie McCoy, director of marketing for the company, said, “With everyone experiencing the pandemic and being sheltered in place, we wanted the card to tie into the theme of the box, also while sending the sentiment home that they are not alone, and we can still gather and celebrate together even if we can’t physically be together.”

McCoy accredited the concept and design to All American Labeling & Packaging Creative Director Samantha Gomez. McCoy stated that, “Gomez concepted a retro TV showing the Yule Log fireplace to artistically show the Christmas Eve TV tradition that Fred M. Thrower had started in 1966. Much like the Yule Log Christmas Eve TV tradition did, our card gave everyone the opportunity to gather around the same fireplace even though we couldn’t physically be together.”

All American Labeling & Packaging was born in 1995 out of a need for a full-service label company that could partner with its clients to help build their success and drive quality products. The company offers digital, flexo and offset printing as well as folding cartons, flexible packaging, grand format printing, prototyping, digital plate making and shrink sleeves, all produced in-house. This project was custom designed in the company’s in-house creative design studio.

What made the Yule Log Christmas Card unique was the special use of diecut layers as opposed to other finishing processes. McCoy commented, “Samantha wanted to keep a retro feel to the piece and let the diecutting and design
stand out vs. showcasing other finishes for this particular piece.”

“During the design stage, Samantha created many physical and virtual 3D prototypes to show various iterations of the design and how it could be executed on press,” remarked McCoy. “Our team created a custom CAD and printed the project on the Heidelberg Speedmaster CD102+6L. It then went to the diecutter (MK Easy Matrix) and off to the blanker (TRX 1100). The cards were then hand-glued and folded,” answered McCoy, when asked to describe the processes used to create the Yule Log Christmas Card.

The Yule Log Christmas Card embodies the essence of the holiday season in a remarkable way. The comfort can not only be seen, but also felt. This card showcases such a timeless, nostalgic feeling alongside the unparalleled craftsmanship of a diecut work of art – but with an original idea comes original challenges.

“The whole concept was built from scratch,” stated McCoy, “So there are always challenges when developing a new CAD with no reference point. We have a great collaborative team that rose to the challenge and used physical and 3D visualizers to establish the final piece. In finishing, the only challenge we ran into was efficiently gluing the product to get consistent folds. Our team ended up hand-gluing them to ensure perfection!”

Upon first glance of the card, the viewer takes in the warm hues of orange and yellow gleaming from the burning yule log in the center. The 3D card, made on 100# C2S paper stock, offers four specialty diecut layers to really draw the viewer into the TV set that is showcasing the burning yule log. A string of diecut red and green stockings hangs over the hearth, making the 3D effects of the fire pop.

Once the card is open, the viewer can see the inner workings of the TV set on the left side and a note from All American Label & Packaging on the right describing the Yule Log fireplace. The sign-off from the company reads, “May your days be Merry & Bright! Sending local love your way from your friends at All American Label & Packaging.” Once the card is closed, the backside shows the rear of an old-fashioned television set, to bring home the idea of the original concept brought to life by Fred M. Thrower.

During the process of creating a 3D card, many ideas and concepts must be considered. When asked if there was any special steps or precautions to take in the way of making the card, McCoy answered, “We work with the best suppliers in the industry, allowing us to run tighter tolerances on our diecuts than most. We pushed the limits on this tool to get the best effect and created a stripping jig to help punch the intricate pieces. It started with hand stripping in the beginning, but we were able to find a more efficient and consistent way in the end.”

As far as reviews from customers, the card was a vast success. “We were thrilled with how this project turned out, and it has inspired our creativity for this year’s (2021) card and box. Our customers and employees gave nothing but rave reviews for the card. Some still have them on display on their desks and in their homes. Best compliment we could get,” remarked McCoy.

The Yule Log Christmas Card received silver in the 28^th Annual FSEA Gold Leaf Awards for Special Diecut.

Amplify, The Print Finishing & Embellishment Event, Gaining Enthusiastic Support from Print Industry Sponsors and Exhibitors

December 1, 2021

The Association for PRINT Technologies (APTech) and the Foil & Specialty Effects Association (FSEA) are excited to update the industry on their collaborative venture, Amplify, an exhibition and educational program spotlighting the entire print finishing and embellishment value chain. The three-day experience will see its debut June 14-16, 2022, in the heart of the print, graphic arts and print finishing industry at the Minneapolis Convention Center.

Amplify aims to raise the standard for metallic decorating techniques, folding and gluing, UV coating, laminates, laser cutting, binding, embossing, diecutting, and direct mail by showcasing the brands, products, equipment, software, and experts involved in the processes. From the Technology Zone to Educational Seminars, attendees will experience interactive learning opportunities. Additionally, attendees will network with leading brands and see the latest technological innovations and enhancements in the Exhibit Hall.

Initial interest and support among manufacturers and suppliers for the first iteration of the event has been strong. Sponsors at the platinum level include Canon Solutions America, Kurz Transfer Products LP, and Sakurai USA, Inc. Other sponsors include Harris & Bruno International, Infinity Foils Incorporated – a UEI Group Company, Skandacor, and Universal Engraving – a UEI Group Company.

According to Jeff Peterson, president of FSEA: “Print finishing is an area that celebrates the larger manufacturers as well as the smaller specialty brands. They exist side by side, enhancing the expertise and capabilities of the other to meet the needs of their customers.”

Print finishing and embellishments are the creative elements and the emotional appeal of a printed products. These products involve many specialties and multiple machines working in harmony. Mirroring the complexities of the print finishing and embellishment cycle, Amplify is set to be a first-of-its-kind event that connects the brands, machinery, key players, and processes involved to create eye catching printed products.

Christine Yardley, president of Print Panther, reflects the need of the industry following the pandemic, saying: “I think it is our job as print providers to embrace the changing landscape with excitement. Print is really exciting coming out of this touchless time in history. It is like a fire has been lit and we are all craving color and touch and vibrancy.”

Association partners who are supporting Amplify include AICC, the Independent Packaging Association, and RadTech, the Association for UV&EB Technology. Interest from the media includes media partners supporting the event: Conduit, Inc., Converting Quarterly, Digital Print Solutions Magazine, Digital Output Magazine, PostPress magazine, Industrial Print Magazine, UV+EB Technology and WhatTheyThink.

“It’s been a long time since the industry has been able to gather in one place,” said Thayer Long, president of APTech. “Amplify will be the venue for brands to showcase their latest innovations. Sponsors and exhibitors seeking to strengthen their relationships with current customers and create new connections with prospective customers will experience the robust benefits of an in-person event like Amplify.”

Our dedicated exhibit team is committed to helping exhibitors and sponsors of all size reach their customers, build awareness, and generate new leads. The floor plan has been carefully designed to help both industry leading brands and smaller finishing specialty firms gain exposure to for their products, services, and techniques. Learn more about sponsorship and exhibitor opportunities here. If you are interested in becoming a sponsor or exhibitor, email [email protected] and a sponsor team member to contact you.

Attendee registration for Amplify will launch in early 2022.

To learn more about Amplify, visit amplifyprint.org, or contact [email protected].

ABOUT THE ASSOCIATION FOR PRINT TECHNOLOGIES

APTech provides a forum to inspire the development of new and valuable print products. We educate, provide market research, and foster collaboration between those who create and those who make. We are the industry association that is focused entirely on the future of print. Our members are the creative minds that love to innovate, and the leaders who stand ready to build the future. We facilitate the evolution of physical experiences in our increasingly digital lives. For complete information about the association, its programs, and its member companies, visit: PRINTtechnologies.org or phone: 703.264.7200.

ABOUT THE FOIL & SPECIALTY EFFECTS ASSOCIATION

The Foil & Specialty Effects Association (FSEA) provides a wide range of resources to help companies remain profitable and gain market share through the use of print enhancement technologies such as foil stamping, embossing, specialty coatings, binding and more. From cost-saving programs and educational opportunities to green initiatives proving the sustainability of foil decorated paper/board, the FSEA strives to provide its members with ideas, resources and solutions to grow in today’s marketplace. For more information, visit FSEA.com or phone: 785.271.5816.

Association News: August/September 2021

September 9, 2021

PostPress

FSEA and APTech New Event – Amplify – Generating Praise and Excitement

Three-day event will bring together key players in the print finishing value chain, from designers and creative agencies to specialty effects technicians, print finishers and decorators, mailers and more.

The Foil & Specialty Effects Association (FSEA) and the Association of Print Technologies (APTech)’s announcement last month of their new event – Amplify – The Finishing, Packaging and Design Event, taking place June 14-16, 2022, in Minneapolis, Minnesota – has been generating an enormous amount of buzz in the industry.

The initial reaction has been off the charts. “I have received several phone calls and emails from industry members who are excited that we’re producing an event that is specific to finishing and embellishment technologies,” stated FSEA Executive Director Jeff Peterson. “Combining FSEA’s ability to reach the finishing, binding and embellishment side of the printing industry along with APTech’s vast reach with the commercial print and packaging side, we are confident we will offer a targeted event that is of interest to a variety of segments, including folding carton manufacturers, print finishers and binders, greeting card producers, commercial printers, label manufacturers and more.”

“I am truly excited about the opportunity the new Amplify event and conference will provide. It will be an excellent way for printers, finishers and designers to gain critical insights into the everchanging and evolving world of digital print, digital finishing and techniques for designing with these new possibilities,” affirmed Myron Werner, director of sales – Packaging and Print, at North Carolina-based KURZ Transfer Products. “With COVID-19 slowing us all down, this event will allow many to explore these new processes ‘hands on’ during the Technology Zone demonstrations and discover new techniques to deliver designs to the market faster than ever. These evolving technologies are providing new concepts and opportunities never possible before, and it’s time to see them all under one platform in one place. Amplify fits the need.”

“Print and packaging designers strive to catch the eye of the consumer, and commercial printers need their customers’ printed products to excel,” said Thayer Long, president of APTech. “Amplify will be the venue to showcase the accomplishments, best practices and innovation happening in the print finishing industry.”

To learn more about Amplify or to reserve exhibit space, visit www.amplifyprint.org.

Welcome to new FSEA members!

Litho Press, Inc. (Indianapolis, Indiana)
Crossmark Graphics, Inc. (New Berlin, Wisconsin)
TPC Printing & Packaging (Chattanooga, Tennessee)
Phillips Graphic Finishing (Manheim, Pennsylvania)
Niagara Label Co. (Akron, New York)
Mammoth Labels and Packaging (Grove City, Ohio)
KBB Bindery (Kansas City, Missouri)
Vantage Merchant Services (Parkville, Missouri)
Gietz-Vinfoil Americas, LLC (Homer Glen, Illinois)
Fathom Optics (Somerville, Massachusetts)
Case Paper (Harrison, New York)
Monadnock Paper Mills, Inc. (Bennington, New Hampshire)
Nosco (Pleasant Prairie, Wisconsin)

FSEA Continues Work on Green Initiatives

Sustainability and recyclability are center stage in today’s world, and the addition of any decorative process to a printed product can lead to questions from printers, designers and end users. The FSEA has taken a proactive approach in answering those questions with the development of a special section on the FSEA website on sustainability. The page includes links to several resources, including the FSEA Repulpability Study recently conducted in conjunction with the Georgia Tech Renewable Bioproducts Institute, a new study commissioned by Eagle Systems on cold foil repulpability and recycling, and information on the Design Guide from the American Forest & Paper Association that includes a reference to the FSEA Repulpability Study.

A great deal of the current work on sustainability and metallic decorating is being accomplished through FSEA’s Sustainability Committee. The committee is helping FSEA work through these challenges and educate brand owners and consumers on the truth as it pertains to metallic decorating and other embellishments.

The Sustainability Committee includes these members:

Dennis Bacchetta, Diamond Packaging
Mike King, Eagle Systems
Eric Longnecker, Diamond Packaging
Scott Tacosik, Kurz Transfer Products
Rob Watts, McClean Packaging
Kennon Woodward, American Greetings

FSEA will keep its membership updated on further developments as it becomes available. Bookmark the Sustainability and Green Initiatives page at https://fsea.com/sustainability-green-initiatives/ to stay up-to-date on the most current information.