Packaging finishes change the appearance and feel of the printed surface. They can add smoothness, shine and subtle effects that depend on the desired appearance of surface. This guide covers common finishes such as matte, gloss, soft touch, spot UV, foil stamping, embossing and debossing.

What are packaging finishes?

Packaging finishes are applied on the surface of printed materials. They give the packaging a specific look after the design has been printed. Some finishes also help to protect the surface from scratches or marks during handling. Finish is the overall treatment used to create a specific surface effect and coating is a thin layer applied over the printed surface for a specific purpose.

A printing method is different because it determines how the artwork gets onto the packaging in the first place. Offset and digital printing are examples of printing methods. Finishes can be applied after printing or as part of the production process. The method depends on the type of finish and the packaging material.

A gloss treatment can add shine to the surface. Matte options reduce reflection. Other finishes create a raised effect or add metallic details.

The main purpose isn’t always visual. Some finishes help to protect printed packaging from everyday wear. This makes them useful for boxes that will be handled often or displayed on retail shelves.

What are the main types of packaging finishes?

Packaging finishes have different types. Every single type creates a different surface effect and serves a specific purpose. Some finishes focus on appearance while others provide surface protection. Here are the main types of finishes used for printed packaging:

Matte Finish

A matte finish reduces light reflection from the packaging surface. It creates a smooth appearance without any shine. This finish is often selected for packaging that needs a clean look.

Gloss Finish

A gloss finish creates a reflective surface over the printed material. It can make colors look brighter and gives the box a shine under light. The finish is commonly used when a more vibrant and glossy surface is required.

Read more about matte and gloss finish.

Soft Touch Finish

A soft touch finish adds a thin coating that creates a smooth surface with a velvety feel. It has less reflection than a standard gloss surface and gives the packaging a distinctive tactile quality. It’s often used for premium product packaging.

Spot UV Finish

Spot UV applies a UV cured coating to selected areas instead of covering the entire packaging surface. The coated sections become glossy and create contrast against a matte or uncoated surface. Logos and specific design elements are common areas for this treatment.

Aqueous Coating

Aqueous coating is a water based coating applied over printed packaging. It dries through heat or air and forms a protective layer on the surface. It’s available in different surface effects including matte and gloss.

Foil Stamping

Foil stamping finish transfers a thin layer of metallic or colored foil on the packaging surface using heat and pressure. The foil bonds to selected areas of the design rather than covering the whole package. Gold and silver are common choices although other foil colors are also available.

Embossing

Embossing uses pressure to raise part of the packaging surface. The selected artwork becomes physically higher than the surrounding area. Logos and lettering are often embossed to create a raised detail.

Debossing

Debossing works oppositely by pressing the design into the packaging material. A die creates a recessed area that sits below the surrounding surface. This effect can be used for logos and patterns where a press in detail is desired.

Check out our in-depth guide on embossing and debossing finishes or add-ons.

How do packaging finishes affect the look and feel of a box?

The effect depends on the type of finish and how it is applied to the packaging surface. Here’s how different finishes can affect the overall packaging experience:

  • Visual appearance: A finish can add shine or reduce surface reflection. It can also create contrast between different parts of the printed design.
  • Surface feel: Some finishes leave the box smooth whereas others create a soft or textured surface. Embossing and debossing also give selected areas a raised or recessed feel.
  • Color appearance: Surface treatments can affect how printed colors are seen. Glossy finishes can make colors appear more vibrant although matte surfaces give them a softer look.
  • Durability: Protective coatings can help the printed surface resist scuffs and marks. This is useful when boxes are used for shipping and retail display.
  • Brand presentation: The finish becomes part of the overall packaging design. A soft touch surface can suit premium packaging and a simple matte surface may fit a minimal design.
  • Tactile experience: Customers can notice certain finishes as soon as they handle the box. Raised details and soft surfaces give the packaging a different physical experience from standard printed packaging.

How to choose the right packaging finish?

Not just appearance matters for the right packaging finish but your product types and packaging material are also important. They affect which finish will work best. Consider these factors before selecting a finish:

Consider the Product

The finish should suit the product and the purpose of its packaging. For example, a finish for a gift box should be different from one that is used for food packaging.

Think About the Brand Style

Your brand style can guide the type of surface effect you choose. A minimal design may work well with a subtle matte finish. A luxury brand might prefer foil stamping or a tactile finish.

Check the Packaging Material

Different packaging materials respond differently to finishing processes. Paperboard and rigid boxes may support a wider range of options than some textured or uncoated materials. Always check first that the selected finish is suitable for the material.

Set a Budget

Finishing costs differ by process and coverage. Basic coatings are generally simpler than specialized treatments such as foil stamping or embossing. Compare the options according to the effect you need rather than choosing the most expensive one.

Think About Handling and Storage

Consider how the packaging will be transported and handled before choosing a finish. Boxes that face frequent handling may benefit from a protective coating. Packaging stored in demanding conditions may also need a finish that helps protect the printed surface.

Final Thoughts

Packaging finishes are the main step in the packaging process. They can change the surface appearance and feel even though some options also help to protect printed packaging from everyday wear.

The right choice depends on the packaging material and the product it holds. Your design and intended use matter too. Before making a final decision compare the available finishes and view what they offer. This helps you to choose a finish that fits the packaging without adding unnecessary details or cost.