Foil FAQ for Cardmakers

Adding foil to cards is a great way to add shine & interest! There are so many ways to add foil…with heat, without heat, with dies, with adhesive…where to start? Don’t worry, we can help!

Types Of Foil

We think all foils are good but not all foils are good for the same things! The 2 main types of foil are thermal foil and toner reactive foil.

• Thermal Foil requires heat and pressure; it is a “hot stamping” foil, which is why it works with metal dies/impression plates. Thermal foils are designed for use with the Gemini Foil Press. Crafter’s Companion Foils are thermal.
• Toner Reactive Foils require toner (printed imagery and/or toner infused sprays/glues/pastes, etc.) and heat. iCraft Deco Foils (by ThermoWeb), WOW foils, Heidi Swapp foils are toner reactive.

How To Use

• Gemini Foil Press: use with thermal foils and metal dies.
• Toner Products: use with toner reactive foils and a hot laminator.
• Embossing Powder: use with toner reactive foils, embossing powders & a laminator. Sticky Powder & Bonding Powder generally work the best but don’t be afraid to test other powders.
• Dry Adhesives (double-sided tape): use with thermal and toner reactive foils. No heat required. We love Be Creative tape for this!
• Wet Adhesives (glue pens): use with thermal and toner reactive foils. no heat required. We love Zig 2 Way Glue pens and the iCraft Deco Foil Adhesive Pen.

We’ve created a quick reference chart for you…

Want to learn more about Thermal Foils & the Gemini Foil Press?

• How To Use The Crafter’s Companion Gemini Foil Press
• Create DIY Foil Letterpress Stationary
• Two Minute Tips: Gemini Foil Press with Watercolors

Want to learn more about Toner Reactive Foils?

• Foiling Stamped Images
• 3 Ways To Use Transfer Foil Without Heat
• Two Minute Tips: Rebekah Meier Mixed Media Medium
• Deco Foil Transfer Gel Background
• Foiling with DIY Minc Stamp Pad