To protect the surface after the printing from moistrue and other environmental hazards, varnish is actually a worth considering option. Nowadays, its application is increasing on a daily basis. But, this isn’t the only job it can do for you.
The finishing touch matters more in printing. Varnish plays that finishing role. It changes how a printed piece looks and feels and also changes how long that piece lasts. This blog breaks down things you need to know about varnish in printing. For further explanation, we will learn about the types, advantages, disadvantages and applications of varnish and much more.
What Is Varnish Exactly In Printing
Varnish is a transparent coating that is used on top of ink to protect the printed material. It is like a clear layer on paper to preserve and protect what’s underneath. Varnish coating on paper completely changes the look of the paper by adding shine.
It also makes printed paper survive for a longer time. This is why its use is increasing among all the custom packaging companies.
Types Of Varnish In Printing
Varnish in printing has many different types. Every type works differently and gives different results. These types are:
Gloss Varnish
Gloss varnish is usually used in photos and marketing pieces as it adds high shine. This type of varnish makes the color look bold and glossy.
Matte Varnish
Matte varnish does not add shine. It is used to make printed material look classy and works well for understated looks. This looks soft and smooth.
UV Varnish
UV varnish printing is best for the protection of the printed material compared to other types. It makes paper hard and gives a durable finish.
Water-Based Varnish
This type of varnish is more eco-friendly than others as it is made with water instead of solvents. It also dries faster than other types.
Tinted Varnish
Tinted varnish maintains transparency but adds slight colors during printing. This type of varnish changes the mood of the design without hiding it.
Satin Varnish
Satin varnish is a type that comes between gloss and matte and also adds shine without making printed material flashy. It works for many printing jobs.
Spot Vs Flood: Applied Method
There are mainly two methods of varnish application. Now, the final look and cost of printing will be based on which method you choose. The methods are:
The Spot Varnish
Spot varnish is a coating that is applied to a specific area of the paper. Examples are images, logos and headlines.
The Flood Varnish
Flood varnish is used on the whole of the paper edge to edge. It is usually used for the protection of the entire paper. This varnish is also a cheaper option than spot varnish.
Related Coatings Compared With Traditional Varnish
Varnish is merely liquid solutions applied to any surface that protects it after being dried. Other options like coating which changes the function of the surface i.e., reduce the friction etc. are also available. These options are:
UV Coating
UV coating dries up fast under UV light. It offers strong protection and gives glossy, thick and hard finishing. But it is also expensive.
Soft Touch Coating
Soft touch coating creates a soft, smooth surface and gives a different look than other random coatings. It is preferred for the coating on boxes due to its promising results for printing. Many people use it to coat customized printed boxes.
Aqueous Coating
Aqueous is a water based coating, more eco-friendly than solvent varnish coating, that dries up fast. It is less shiny than UV coating and provides a light protective layer.
Advantages Of Varnish
There are many advantages of varnish as far as printing is concerned. These benefits are:
- Varnish acts as a protective layer and helps the printing material to survive longer.
- It is less expensive than lamination and UV coating.
- Helps your boxes stand out on crowded retail shelves.
- This water-based add-on option is also more eco-friendly.
Disadvantages Of Varnish
To educate the public, we’ve also gathered some disadvantages of varnish. These important to notice cons are:
- Not as protective as lamination or thick UV.
- May crack or break on severely folded or creased surfaces.
- Gloss varnish may provide glare, reducing legibility in bright light.
- Not suitable for surfaces that are to be written or printed on afterwards.
Varnish Vs Lamination
Varnish is applied directly on the print. It dries fast because it is in liquid form. Varnish is less expensive and provides moderate protection from scratches.
Lamination is a plastic sheet that is usually placed over the printed surface. It offers long-term and stronger protection from damage, but it also costs more than varnish.
| Feature | Varnish | Lamination |
| Application | Liquid coating | Thin film |
| Protection | Moderate | Higher |
| Cost | Generally lower | Generally higher |
| Surface feel | Gloss, matte, satin | Gloss, matte, soft-touch, etc. |
| Thickness | Minimal | Adds film thickness |
| Best for | General print protection | Higher durability |
Conclusion
After all discussed points, we hope you’ll be able to decide which is the best add-on option for your product. To choose the most suitable add-on option, one should be aware of all these mentioned terms. Now, the communication between the sales team and the customer plays a very important role. This will make sure during the negotiation, all the points are cleared between both the parties. Any businessman will want the best option to be applied on his/her product for better brand recognition. The important factor here is the analysis of one’s target from the final product required.
FAQs
What Is Varnish Coating?
Varnish is a protective coating that is used on printing material to enhance the quality of papers. It adds shine and protects papers from scratches and moisture damage.
What Is Spot Varnish In UV Printing?
In UV printing, spot varnish is a coating that is applied only on specific areas. Then instantly dried under ultraviolet light.
Which Is Better Between Lamination And Varnish?
Lamination and varnish both work differently. But the main difference is that varnish is less expensive than lamination.
