Techniques / Printing
Metallic Ink
Foil isn't the only way to shine. Pantone metallic inks — PMS 871 gold, PMS 877 silver, and a whole spectrum of shimmering mixes — put metal into the ink itself, printable anywhere ink goes.
Their standout property: opacity. Metallic inks print opaquely on black paper, making bold statements where standard inks vanish. On white stock they add a captivating glimmer to even the simplest design, and on coated or gloss papers the brilliance turns all the way up.
Where foil demands a die and delivers mirror shine, metallic ink flows through letterpress and offset — fine halftones, gradients, large floods, and custom-mixed hues foil can't match. Many of our favorite pieces use both: metallic ink for the artwork, foil for the hit that has to blind.
Where metallic ink excels
- Halftones & gradients — shimmer that fades and blooms; foil can't do this.
- Large floods — full metallic coverage without a die.
- Fine text & rules — metal at letterpress sharpness.
- Black paper — opaque metal where standard inks vanish.
Metallic ink samples
FAQ
Metallic ink or foil?
Foil demands a die and delivers mirror shine; metallic ink flows through letterpress and offset — halftones, gradients, floods, and custom hues foil can't match. Many favorite pieces use both.
Does metallic ink work on black paper?
Yes — opacity is its standout property. Silver and gold print bold and legible on black stock.
Can metallics be custom mixed?
Beyond PMS 871 gold and 877 silver, we blend custom shimmering mixes to hit the hue your brand actually is.
Which presses run metallic ink?
Both letterpress and offset — with the finish turning brightest on coated and gloss papers.