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Introduction to Finishing: Embellishments

Introduction to Finishing: Embellishments

Embellishments – Episode Summary

In this eye-catching episode of The Print University, Pat McGrew and Ryan McAbee explore the power of print embellishments to transform ordinary print into extraordinary brand experiences. From foil and spot varnish to embossing, soft-touch coatings, and contour cutting, this episode equips PSPs with the creative and technical knowledge to offer value-added finishing that drives profit. Essential for teams investing in bindery equipment training courses, digital printing press training, or outsourced training for print production staff, this course reveals how embellishments enhance both aesthetics and ROI.

The episode explains both analog and digital embellishment processes, comparing traditional methods with emerging digital options that reduce makeready time, minimize waste, and enable short-run, personalized finishing. Digital embellishment systems from Scodix, MGI, Harris & Bruno, Xerox Iridesse, Kodak Ascend, and others are highlighted for their ability to apply foil, varnish, textures, and effects in one-pass, recyclable workflows.

Design considerations are emphasized: embellishment layers must be registered precisely with CMYK print; file setup must account for folds, glue areas, and tactile alignment. Vendors offer free design guides and automation tools to simplify this. Pat and Ryan also showcase real samples—textured envelopes, foiled cards, embossed boxes—to demonstrate how creative finishing drives differentiation in luxury packaging, marketing collateral, and direct mail.

This episode makes it clear: there’s real money in embellishment, and the tools are more accessible than ever.

You Will Learn:

  • Core embellishment types: foil, spot varnish, embossing, debossing, contour cutting, soft-touch coatings

  • Analog vs. digital: sustainability, makeready savings, substrate compatibility

  • File setup tips: layering, registration, fold/glue zone planning

  • Key vendors and equipment: Scodix, MGI, Harris & Bruno, Xerox, Kodak, Kompac

  • How to use embellishments to drive engagement, elevate design, and increase margins

Who This Course Is For:

Designers, sales teams, finishing operators, production managers, and PSPs seeking to boost value-added services through bindery equipment training courses, color management training for new hires, or implementing digital printing press training

Time to Watch:

Approx. 30 minutes