Foil stamping relies on heat and pressure to transfer foil from a carrier to the substrate. The surface must accept the foil; coated, textured, or non-porous surfaces can reject foil or produce uneven results. Uncoated, smooth, and porous stocks typically foil well.
What works
Uncoated and matte-coated paper often foil well. Smooth surfaces give consistent transfer. Some synthetic and plastic substrates can be foiled with the right foil type and dwell time. The printer will test or specify which stocks they recommend.
What fails or is risky
Heavy gloss coating can reject foil or cause poor adhesion. Textured or rough paper may foil unevenly. Wet ink or UV coating under the foil area can cause adhesion failure. Always confirm substrate and any under-printing with the printer before committing.
Before you choose stock
• State that you want foil and ask which stocks the printer recommends.
• If you have a specific stock, ask if it is foilable.
• Avoid assuming "any paper" will work; test or confirm.
Common mistake
Choosing a heavily coated or textured stock and assuming foil will work. Foil may not adhere or may look spotty. Confirm substrate before finalizing the job.