The finish on your print affects how it looks, feels and whether it can be recycled. Here's how to choose the right one for every application.
The finish on a printed piece is often an afterthought — but it has significant impact on look, feel and sustainability.
Gloss laminate
High-shine finish, enhances colour, durable. Not recyclable — plastic film cannot be separated from paper. Avoid on short-lived items.
Matt laminate
Low-sheen, sophisticated, tactile. Same recyclability issue as gloss. Better for upmarket brochures and menus.
Soft touch laminate
Velvety, rubberised surface, genuinely premium. Plastic lamination — avoid on disposable items.
Uncoated
Most sustainable finish option. Natural, approachable aesthetic. Essential for anything people write on. Fully recyclable.
Aqueous coating
Water-based varnish applied inline during printing. Fully recyclable. The most sustainable option when some surface protection is needed.
Spot UV
High-gloss varnish applied to specific areas, creating contrast against matt. Premium effect. UV-cured — not as problematic as plastic lamination.
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