Abstract: In security printing apparatus for attaching a foil imprint of predetermined shape to stock (10) such as bank note sheets, a tape (8; 108)) carrying foil to be printed and a layer of hot-melt adhesive is conveyed with the stock past a heated printing roll (2; 102). In order to allow high printing speeds the adhesive is at least partially activated by pre-heating just prior to printing. The pre-heating means may comprise hot air, radiation or heated guide means for the foil carrier web. Details of pattern or shape may be etched on the foil, either before or after printing, by means of laser beam, the details being defined by a mask moving with the foil.