Pumpkins by the door, candles glowing in the windows and darkness falling a little earlier each day. Halloween is a time when everything seems to be wrapped in a subtle veil of mystery. So why not bring a little of that magic to your prints too? 🎃
Whether you're creating business cards, a book cover, an invitation or product packaging, print finishing is a great way to make it stand out. We've selected three effects that look spookily good.
✔️ Metallic foil that comes alive by candlelight
All it takes is the flicker of a candle or the glow of a lamp for the metallic effect on your logo, book title or illustration to catch the eye. While other prints fade into the shadows, yours will shimmer with every movement.
✔️ Spot UV that brings details to life
Run your finger across the paper and you can instantly feel the elements you selected rising above the surface. 3D spot UV adds shine and a distinctive raised effect to images, headlines and logos, making them emerge from the flat surface like figures from the shadows.
✔️ Soft touch lamination like a velvet cloak
Wrap your prints in velvet. The surface will feel so soft that you'll want to touch it again and again. And once someone picks up your print, they won't be in a hurry to put it down.
Which effect works best and when?
Metallic foil is ideal for highlighting logos and decorative details. 3D spot UV works particularly well on larger areas, images and headlines, where you can really feel the raised effect. Soft touch lamination elevates dark and minimalist designs while also protecting your print from wear and tear. And if you're not sure which finish will work best with your design, we'll be happy to help.
Frequently asked questions about print finishing
1. What is soft touch lamination?
It's a soft, matt film applied across the entire surface of your print. It has a velvety feel, gives your print a premium look and helps protect it from scratches and wear.
2. What's the difference between spot UV and lamination?
Lamination covers the entire surface and is mainly used for protection and to create an overall matt, gloss or velvety finish. Spot UV is applied only to selected elements you want to highlight. The 3D version also creates a pronounced raised effect that you can feel under your fingertips.
3. Can different finishes be combined?
Yes. One particularly popular combination is matt or soft touch lamination with glossy spot UV or metallic foil. The contrast between a matt background and a glossy detail creates a particularly elegant effect.
4. What types of print are these finishes suitable for?
They're most commonly used for business cards, book and brochure covers, invitations, wedding stationery, catalogues and labels. Essentially, anywhere you want your print to make an impression at first sight and first touch.
