Print finishing - WE.LOVE.PRINT

The fascination of print finishing: because print is not just print!

Print finishing is something of a joker in the print industry. Behind this term lies a rich collection of possibilities for turning print media into unique eye-catchers that attract attention, arouse desires and stay in the mind. Finishing techniques turn print products into small or large works of art that appeal to us and our emotions in a way that no screen advertising ever could. By using finishing techniques, companies can individualize their printed matter to the maximum, stand out from the crowd and leave a lasting impression on their customers. The variety of print finishing techniques knows almost no bounds. And - as much as is already possible now, so much will be added in the future thanks to the constant development of the graphic arts industry.

The paint is not off

The use of various finishing techniques is probably one of the best known, special varnishes. Depending on the type of varnish, certain areas of a design can be highlighted or accentuated, for example. There are various varnishing techniques to make printed materials even more exciting and individualize them. Gloss varnish for example, lends a noble high-end look, while a Matt lacquering is particularly style-conscious, discreet and minimalist. Relief or textured coatings enable a haptically special print experience, while UV coatings with high-gloss effects and unbeatable durability. By means of Spot varnishing can be used to emphasize certain areas of a print article, enabling targeted accents to be set and thus drawing the attention of potential customers. Coatings such as scratch-off- and blackboard varnishes awaken the playful child in us, while variants such as Scented varnishes or Glitter varnishes beguile our senses.

Print finishing with various coatings creates a special connection. It enables companies to design their printed matter in a highly individual way, emphasize their strengths, actively and effectively influence the customer journey and communicate brand messages effectively.

Formative moments

Embossing can give print media an incomparable touch. An embossing stamp or embossing machine is used to create a relief in the paper or the respective surface. This relief can have various shapes and patterns - so the print product can be customized to suit the brand, purpose and/or target group. Frequently used embossing techniques are Blind, micro and relief embossing. The relief is embossed into the paper without any additional color or effect foil. This creates a subtle, three-dimensional effect that leaves a high-quality and elegant impression. Relief embossing differs from blind embossing in that it can be used to achieve particularly deep three-dimensional effects. With the Color and hot foil stamping the embossed relief is combined with color(s) or foil - for example in a metallic look. This creates high-contrast effects or sophisticated accents that attract everyone's attention.

Through the targeted use of embossing techniques, companies can individualize their printed matter, stand out from the competition and leave customers with a tangible impression.

Further print finishing options

At the Lenticular printing can be used to create impressive morphing and 3D effects or even short "animations" on paper by using special lenticulars. A particularly well-known variant is the so-called "wobble image", which we know from postcards. Lenticular printing is ideal for eye-catching advertising materials and posters that need to attract special attention.

With the Flocking textile fibers are applied electrostatically to an adhesive-coated surface. This can create different textures - such as velvety-soft or plush. This method gives packaging and textiles a feel that almost demands to be touched!

Laminations not only enhance print products, they also protect them. A fine plastic layer increases the durability of print media and gives it a high-quality look. This technique is used particularly frequently for business cards, book covers and high-quality advertising materials.

At the Lasercutting precise laser beams are used to cut complex or intricate patterns into print products. This method is ideal for artistic invitations, greeting cards or packaging and gives products a unique, artistic touch.

The Thermosensitive process is a printing process in which the colors or patterns become visible or change as the temperature changes. This technique is often used for interactive advertising materials and can provide real moments of surprise.