Our craft
Print & finish techniques
Welcome to Gee Brothers’ Battersea workshop, where we use a variety of specialised printing techniques to create beautiful, high-quality stationery. Our skilled artisans use both traditional and modern processes to deliver unique finishes for each piece.
Thermography printing: raised print for elegant stationery
Thermography is an economical alternative to die stamping or engraving, producing a raised effect on the printed sheet without needing a die. Here’s how it works:
1. Initial print: We start with a lithographic or letterpress print, applying ink to the paper.
2. Application of resin: While the ink is wet, we apply a powdered resin that adheres to the inked areas.
3. Heating process: The sheet is heated to fuse the resin, creating a raised texture on the surface.
Our thermography stands out due to its exceptional detail and fineness, closely emulating the look of die stamping. If you’d like to see the quality for yourself, please request a sample!
Engraving: traditional die stamping for a luxurious finish
Engraving is a centuries-old printing method known for its precision and depth. Here’s how we do it:
1. Die creation: Text or an image is etched onto a copper or steel die.
2. Stamping process: Using high pressure (over a ton per square inch), the die stamps the inked image onto the paper, creating a raised effect on the front and a subtle indentation on the back.
Engraving’s intense pressure and detail make it superior for fine lines and intricate designs. Gee Brothers is one of the few UK printers offering a hand-engraving service that is perfect for elegant wedding invitations and bespoke stationery.
Letterpress printing: timeless texture and depth
Letterpress printing combines the tactile appeal of traditional printing with modern design flexibility. For optimal results, we recommend using G.F. Smith’s soft-finish card, available in a variety of colours.
1. Impression process: The press creates a debossed impression on the paper, adding depth and texture.
2. Custom options: Choose from stocked colours for a unique look that suits your vision.
This process is ideal for customers who appreciate the craftsmanship and beauty of a letterpress-printed piece.
Lithography
Lithography — or litho printing for short — is where the image of the content you want to produce is placed on a plate, covered in ink and then used for printing. This process is based on the principle that oil and water don’t mix and can be used to print on paper, card and many other materials.
The material receiving the image or words you want to print is placed against the plate, and the inks are absorbed accordingly. It takes great skill to ensure the inks are mixed correctly and placed in the correct order.
Request a sample or learn more
Curious to see the results firsthand? Contact Gee Brothers to request a sample or schedule a consultation. Let us help you create stationery that not only looks stunning but also showcases the quality and precision of our traditional printing techniques.
Reviews
What our customers say...
What a company! Could not recommend their services more!
Thank you Gee bros!
Matthew Gorton — 11 February 2024
Lucy has been terribly helpful putting in a rush order for us!
Many thanks
Shawna B — 11 December 2023
My parents used Gee Brothers in 1991 for their wedding invitations and so they recommended them to us. Wonderful, traditional craftsmanship and service.
Rob Akehurst — 24 May 2023
Thank you to Kerala at Gee Brothers who was extremely helpful in helping facilitate our stationery. A first-class experience from start to finish.
Claudia Leighton — 19 May 2023