London-based Creative Signs has invested in a new Mimaki UJF-3042HG desktop printer with i-Sub Digital's exclusive Digi-Foil foiling system, after checking out the new kit on the market at Sign and Digital UK 2014.
Daryl Barrett, Proprietor of Creative Signs, visited this spring's Sign and Digital UK to see the latest digital printing equipment. After being impressed by the Digi-Foil system on i-Sub Digital's stand he booked an in-depth demonstration at the print specialist's Kettering headquarters before signing on the bottom line. The system combines a Mimaki UJF series printer with Digi-Foil and a heated applicator to create foiling effects identical to those produced by traditional processes, but in a fraction of the time and with much less waste. Ideal for small-format signage and graphics, colour-accurate packaging mock-ups, personalisation, security marking and decoration effects, Digi-Foil offers huge potential for businesses across several industries.
Creative Signs specialises in short-run signage and graphics for large graphic design houses and smaller local clients. Daryl Barrett chose the Mimaki UJF-3042HG – a version of the UJF-3042 with a high 150mm max head gap （HG） for thicker substrates – for its small footprint, good build quality, primer and varnish options.
"The size is perfect for what I wanted it for," he says. "Its functions are complementary to what I'm currently doing and offer new options. Foiling can be difficult with traditional processes but this system makes it easier to create amazing products such as packaging prototypes and personalisation onto virtually anything."Creative Signs, trading since 1993, is now looking to move into the web-to-print arena, with a new website on the way that will enable the public to buy items directly. Daryl Barrett is keeping tight-lipped about the products planned, however, as he is still exploring the many capabilities of the Mimaki UJF-3042HG two weeks after its installation.
"I have already completed production jobs on the Mimaki with Digi-Foil and have seen a very positive response from my clients who have now begun utilising the applications and finishes I can now offer into their work!" he says.
After supplying Creative Signs with ink and consumables since 2008, i-Sub Digital is delighted to supply its Digi-Foil system to the London business. "We've had a lot of interest in the Mimaki UJF range of UV desktop printers with Digi-Foil since its launch and appearances at Packaging Innovations and Sign and Digital UK," comments Andy Spreag, Director, i-Sub Digital. "It can achieve both bread-and-butter work and some really exciting effects, quickly and cost-effectively, and a lot of businesses like Creative Signs are seeing the potential of these options."