At LCI Paper, envelopes with a metallic finish are growing categories, both in customer popularity and with our expanding lines of Stardream, Aspire Petallics, and Reaction brands. The tiny specks in the simulated metal finish reflect and show different luminosity depending on the envelope's position to the light. Once you hold the envelopes in your hand and get a feel for their unique finish, you'll see why people are using metallic envelopes for weddings to birthday parties to Bar Mitzvahs.
Stardream Envelopes
Stardream envelopes, available in a variety of popular sizes, are made with metallic Stardream brand paper by European fine paper manufacturer Gruppo Cordenons (Italian for the Cordenons Group). Gruppo Cordenons has a rich history in paper making dating back 1630 when the earliest records indicate their Cartera de Cordenon mill in Italy began operation. That Italian mill and another in Italy continue to produce high quality specialty and technical papers.
Stardream is a distinctive range of metallic, iridescent and pearlescent paper created expressly for the designer and printer to give an "astral" effect to your work, meeting the more sophisticated trends of color and fashion. Michael P. Santillo, Gruppo Cordenons' Eastern Regional Sale Manager says,
"Stardream envelopes are a great way to depict style and class for that special occasion and will leave a lasting impression on the recipient."
The smooth and shiny Stardream finish is presented on both the inside and outside of the envelopes.
Aspire Petallics Envelopes
Like luscious candies dipped in sugar, delightfully colored base papers and a specially formulated mica coating combine to create Aspire Petallics. Aspire Petallics envelopes are available in a range of pastel tones plus the striking and unique Copper Ore color. The smooth and shiny finish is duplicated on the inside as well.
John Kelly, VP of Sales & Marketing for CTI Paper USA says
"The distinctly elegant surface of Aspire Petallics radiates with a soft alluring shine, conveying sophistication, glamor and beauty. Your invitation, announcement or direct mail piece will demand attention when housed in an Aspire Petallics envelope."
Reaction Envelopes
As mentioned in the first paragraph, our metallic envelopes react differently to the light, depending on how you hold and manipulate the envelope. The Reaction brand, made in the Bavarian Alps of Germany, provide the most dramatic reaction, hence the brand name. Mica pigments produce a bi-color effect. Reaction envelopes also have a soft feel, subtle mesh texture that you'll notice when you touch them. Unlike Stardream and Aspire Petallics, inside the envelope, Reaction features a non-metallic finish in a complimentary color.
Gmund's Worldwide Sales Director, Herbert Eibach, had the following to say about Reaction envelopes:
"There are many important occasions where an envelope needs to impress people. On special occasions like this, the intended response is for the recipient to experience an unforgettable, emotional, and pleasurable visual. Gmund has developed a range of unique Reaction envelopes especially for the most unique business communication opportunities. The surface shines like silk, sparkling like precious jewelry. The Gmund Reaction envelope has the attractiveness to touch peoples feelings."
All three brands can be printed using conventional methods. Due to the unique metallic surfaces, they are not recommended for inkjet printing. In some cases, laser printing can be achieved. We recommend consulting your printer's user manual and ordering a sample to run as a test.
