When Printers Should NOT Pitch Digital Embellishments to Their Clients

Digital embellishments have undoubtedly revolutionized the printing world. From tactile experiences like foil and varnish to innovative uses of holography and security features, they bring print materials to life in new, visually captivating ways. However, like any tool or technique, they aren’t a one-size-fits-all solution. There are instances where pitching digital embellishments might not be in the best interest of the printer or their client.

When Simplicity is Key

There’s a saying in design: “Less is more.” This principle champions minimalism, suggesting that simplicity can often lead to more effective communication. If your client's branding or messaging is rooted in simplicity or minimalism, it may not benefit from extravagant digital embellishments.

Take brands like Apple, for example. Their design ethos leans heavily on clean lines, muted color palettes, and a lack of visual clutter. Introducing intricate foiling or holography might disrupt this, potentially confusing or alienating their target audience.

Tight Budgets

Digital embellishments can significantly raise the cost of a printing project. For clients on a tight budget, it might be more beneficial to focus on high-quality basic printing than to invest in embellishments. As a printer, understanding the client's budget constraints and offering solutions that deliver the best value within those parameters is essential.

Mega Quick Turnaround Times

Adding digital embellishments often extends the production timeline. Each additional process requires setup, calibration, quality checks, and sometimes additional drying or curing times. If your client is on a tight deadline, suggesting a straightforward print job without added embellishments might be the most responsible route.

When Digital Isn’t the Best Medium

Sometimes, traditional embellishment techniques might serve the project better than their digital counterparts. Traditional methods like letterpress, embossing, or screen printing have distinct qualities that digital can't quite replicate. If a client desires a classic or vintage look, it might be best to stick with these time-tested methods.

High Volume Runs

Digital embellishments, particularly when they're intricate or involve multiple steps, can be more time-consuming and expensive on high volume runs. If a client needs hundreds of thousands or even millions of copies, the cost and time implications of digital embellishments could be prohibitive.

Unsuitable Material

Not all materials are suited for every embellishment. Thin or uncoated paper, for example, might not handle the heat and pressure of certain foiling processes well. If the client’s chosen material isn't conducive to the embellishment process, it’s best not to push for it.

Risk of Overdesign

There's a risk in design known as "overdesign", where too many elements compete for attention. If a piece already has strong visual components, like striking imagery or vibrant color schemes, adding embellishments could make it feel cluttered or overwhelming. It’s crucial to remember that just because you "can" add an embellishment doesn't mean you "should".

Limited Shelf Life

For items with a short lifespan like event flyers, investing in digital embellishments might not offer a good return on investment. These items are likely to be discarded quickly, making the added cost and effort of embellishments potentially wasteful.

Brand Consistency

If your client has established branding guidelines, introducing new elements might disrupt their brand consistency. Always check whether the embellishments align with the brand's identity and messaging.

When There’s a Lack of Clear Purpose

Embellishments should always serve a purpose beyond just looking good. Whether it’s to highlight specific information, evoke a particular emotion, or enhance the tactile experience, there should be a clear rationale. If there's no clear reason to include an embellishment, it might be best to leave it out.

When Clients are Unsure

If a client is uncertain or lacks understanding about the benefits of digital embellishments, it might not be the right choice for them. It's always a good practice to educate clients about their options, but it's also essential to ensure they feel confident and comfortable with their decisions.

While digital embellishments offer printers a fantastic tool to elevate their work and provide clients with unique, attention-grabbing products, it’s vital to approach them judiciously. Not every project will benefit from them, and in some cases, they might even detract from the project's goals.

By recognizing when to hold back and when to employ these embellishments, printers can build stronger relationships with their clients, providing them with the best solutions for their needs, ensuring both a successful project outcome and a satisfied customer.