Printing Methods
Raised vs. Digital Printing
Raised printing (thermography) was the standard in the 1980s and ’90s — but modern digital printing has surpassed it on nearly every front. Here’s an honest look at how the two compare, so you can choose with confidence.
The Short Version
why digital is the modern choice
Thermography produced a lovely raised-text effect, but it prints one color at a time on lightweight 90lb paper, with slower production. Each extra color means another press pass and added cost — so multi-color and watercolor designs were rarely practical.
Digital printing has largely superseded it thanks to its speed, full-color range (printed all at once), support for heavier 130lb paper, and the ability to produce small, personalized quantities at a lower cost — from vibrant hues to delicate watercolor artwork.
Side by Side
how they compare
Seven things that matter most when choosing how your invitation is printed.
color
Raised PrintingPrints one color per pass. Want two or three colors? You pay for each additional color pass, so multi-color designs add up quickly.
Digital PrintingFull color printed all at once, at no per-color charge — vibrant gradients and even delicate watercolor come out beautifully.
design detail
Raised PrintingA one-color technique at heart — detailed multi-color art and watercolor simply aren’t practical.
Digital PrintingReproduces small text, intricate patterns, gradients, and full watercolor artwork with precision.
paper weight
Raised PrintingRestricted to lighter weights (around 90lb) that could withstand the heat process.
Digital PrintingHandles everything from light stock to heavy 130lb cardstock — no heat process needed.
personalization
Raised PrintingLimited — each change means new plates and added cost.
Digital PrintingEffortless custom text, varying names, and quick changes with no extra setup.
short runs & cost
Raised PrintingSetup and tooling make small batches cost-prohibitive; the starting cost is high.
Digital PrintingPrint as few as 15 with no plate or setup fees — ideal and budget-friendly for smaller orders.
speed
Raised PrintingJobs were batched by color — all the gold work, for example, was run together, so your order could wait until enough jobs accumulated.
Digital PrintingYour job prints right then and there — no waiting to be grouped with others.
print quality & longevity
Raised PrintingA cherished tactile, raised feel — though intricate detail may not stay crisp.
Digital PrintingPrinted on professional presses, the color stays vivid for years. (Beware home printers, where color fades gradually over time.)
That said — the raised effect of thermography is still cherished for certain formal pieces. It’s a beautiful tradition; it simply trades away the color, detail, and flexibility that modern celebrations often call for.
In Conclusion
want a raised, high-end look?
For modern invitations, digital printing wins on color, flexibility, sharpness, premium paper, and cost. Since true raised printing is now rare and costly, here’s how we recreate that luxurious, elevated feel:
Add gold, rose, or silver foil for a stunning metallic shine, and choose 260lb. museum board for substantial, high-end weight in the hand. Together they deliver a sophisticated, memorable invitation that stands out in style.
Not Sure Which Is Right?
let’s find the perfect finish for you
Explore our upgrade options, or schedule a complimentary consultation and we’ll help you choose the look that fits your celebration and your budget.