Matt, gloss or soft touch lamination: which to choose
What each finish changes to the eye and to the hand, and when to do without.
Translation under review.
Lamination is a very thin film laid on the paper after printing. It protects the ink, stiffens the sheet a little and changes how colours look. Three finishes are offered on business cards and on booklet covers.
| Finish | Look | Suits |
|---|---|---|
| Matt | No glare, softer colours | Text to be read, quiet identities |
| Gloss | Reflective, vivid colours, deep blacks | Photographs, colourful artwork |
| Soft touch | Matt with a velvety feel | Careful cards, covers |
Matt
Matt removes glare, so text stays readable under any light. Colours look a little softer than on screen. Large dark areas show fingerprints more.
Gloss
Gloss raises contrast and flatters photographs. In return the surface reflects light and a pen writes poorly on it.
Soft touch
Soft touch is a matt film with a peach-skin surface. You notice it as soon as you hold the card. It costs more than matt and gloss.
One side or both
Lamination on one side protects the printed face and leaves the back bare. Choose it if you need to write on the back: an appointment, a number, a stamp.
No lamination
On uncoated offset paper, lamination is not offered: that paper is chosen for its natural feel and because you can write on it. On coated paper you can do without lamination; solid colours then scratch more easily.