Print Coating Options

The coating is the mixture of materials that are applied to paper to improve the smoothness of the paper's surface and improve ink holdout during the printing process. Examples are Aqueous coating (AQ) and UV coating. UV coating adds a gloss finish to the product and also improves the vibrancy of the printed colors. Spot-UV can be applied to selected portions of the piece while keeping the rest a matte finish.

 

Aqueous coating is a clear coating that is used to protect printed pieces. It provides a high-gloss surface that deters dirt or fingerprints.

UV Coating is a liquid coating applied to the printed piece. This coating is used to provide a protective coating to the printed image.  You cannot print or write over a UV-coated job.

Matte finish has a dull uncoated finish

Silk Lamination is a dull matte film applied to one or both sides of a print product. Silk lamination gives cards a luxuriously smooth feel and may dull color and contrast slightly.