Thermography

Thermography is a finishing process that has a similar result as steel die engraving without the impression on the back.  After offset printing, while the ink is still wet, a fine resinous powder is applied to the ink.  Glossy or dull finishing powder may be used.  The sheet is then passed through a heat chamber that fuses the resin into a raised image.  The finish resembles engraving but is significantly less expensive.

Laser Safe Thermography

For laser safe thermography, the sheet is then passed through a second heat chamber that applies ultra violet light - heating it to a much higher temperature.  This allows the sheet to then be used in laser printers.  This process is almost always applied to letterhead and business envelopes.

Sand Thermography

For sand thermography, a fine sand is mixed with the resinous powder and applied to the ink.  It is then passed through a heat chamber causing the sand to bake on.  This gives the effect of fine sand paper.