In April 2021 Gary James McQueen released his first digital fashion show, Guiding Light. A standout piece from the collection was a stunning scarab beetle-inspired brooch made from solid 9ct rose gold, with mother-of-pearl underwings and a ruby centrepiece. To mark their centenary, printers Barnard & Westwood approached McQueen with the idea of a unique collaboration. The fashion designer suggested recreating his scarab beetle design as a printed piece - a perfect means of showcasing the variety of textures that can be achieved using foiling processes. In partnership with Foilco, and Tomlinson engravers, Barnard & Westwood brought McQueen’s design to life on paper.

GF Smith Colorplan Ebony 350gsm with a Smooth emboss was selected for the project. A flat metallic foil was applied, and an intricate fluted block was used to print and emboss the precious stone centrepiece. The sculptured detailing of the die, paired with a glittering foil, attained a realistic gem-like effect.

The wings of the beetle were crafted using a micro-detailed textured block along with iridescent foil. The fine lines within the die gave an authentic finish to the wings, and the shimmering foil added layers of light. Finally, the whole image was lifted on the sheet with a multi-level blind embossing, creating drama and depth.

The finished piece is a striking testament to Barnard & Westwood’s 100 years of luxury printing experience.