Visually appealing print / packaging is key to sales success, and special surfaces can contribute to this, see below for a brief description of 10 special surface effects. Learn how to use different surface finishes and effects to take your print / packaging look to the next level.
1. Glossy UV-coating
It is one of the most popular coatings in the industry. It provides a transparent, high-gloss coating that also protects the print.
UV varnishes are liquid-based coatings that are dried with UV lamps after print and cure immediately. Compared to aqueous coatings, UV coatings can provide an extremely glossy surface. They also provide high abrasion resistance. For best results, inks used for prints below them should be wax-free or UV-compatible.
2. 3D UV coating
A great way to get tactile effects is to print a 3D UV coating. Increasing the height of the coating brings more dimensions that can highlight the artistic effect or graphics. It can encourage the consumer to touch the surface.
3. Spot Varnish
The advantage of spot UV varnish is that it draws attention to a certain area of the print. For example, only the area of the logo is glossy.
4. Pearlescent coating
If a luxurious glitter look is what you’re looking for, then a pearlescent coating may be right for you. Pearlescent coatings can be water based or UV based. In the case of UV-based coatings, the pearl additive is mixed with a glossy UV varnish. Depending on the variation and size of the particle, the pearlescent coating may have a stronger or finer effect. The water-based version of this coating is similar, but in this case the pearl additive is mixed with a glossy water-based varnish.
In the family of glossy coatings, pearlescent coatings are highly decorative and are used in many industries. The less intense luster gives a unique look to any surface without exaggerating. The unique nature of the pearlescent coating can be applied to a number of different colors, creating a pearly hue when viewed.
5. Glitter coatings
For a strong, sparkling look, a glitter coating may be the solution. Such a coating can be created by adding large (50-200 micron) glitter particles to the glossy UV varnish that gives a special thick layer. They are available in a wide range of glitter powders.
6. Varnishes
Varnishes serve a variety of purposes, including print protection, but can also be used to create special textures. Like coatings, varnishes can be applied to very specific areas (spot varnishing) or to a large or even entire surface.
7. Soft Touch Varnish
Have you ever touched a print or packaging that looked velvety? This effect is due to the soft-touch varnish, which creates a soft, velvety texture. It looks softer than high-gloss or textured coatings.
8. Grainy Varnishes
The coating made with these is known for its rough and massive tactile effect. Although softer than an abrasive paper, it is the most grainy tactile coating. It is useful when a non-slip surface is required and also works well for reusable packaging.
9. "Sandpaper" Varnishes
The "sandpaper" coatings are finer than grainy coatings and provide only a slightly rough texture. The coating resembles the surface of unglazed clay pots and gives a slightly sharp feel to coated surfaces such as plastics or paper products.
Both grainy and "sandpaper" varnishes can be used on a variety of surfaces to provide an interesting tactile experience.
10. Embossed print
Embossing is an expression of elegance and luxury. The embossed, tactile surface of the print and packaging has a more interesting effect and brings an exclusive feeling to its customers.
Special effects
The above 10 special surface effects, special effect coatings can improve the decoration techniques of packaging, advertising surfaces and gifts. In the increasingly competition, every business needs promotional materials (banner, brochure, flyer, business card, stationery, etc.) to strengthen its presence in the market. While impeccable design can make your advertising material more attractive and eye-catching, if you want to stand out from the competition, choose the best print processing techniques available on the market.
Finishing applies to all procedures that are applied to materials after they have been printed. While this may seem like a small part of the overall printing process, it can make a striking difference to any printed material. - Finishing is one of the best ways to make your product look great.
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