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Substrate Saturdays with Steve has been our weekly deep dive into the materials we work with at Thysse—breaking down what they are, how they function, and why they matter.
For our (maybe) final edition, we’re covering coatings, protectants, and specialty finishes—the subtle yet powerful details that don’t just protect your print but also enhance visual appeal, create texture, and make your brand stand out.
Whether you're designing packaging, signage, or high-end marketing materials, the right finish can turn something ordinary into something remarkable.
Coatings and specialty finishes serve three key purposes:
Protection – Guarding against smudging, fingerprints, moisture, and general wear.
Aesthetic Enhancement – Adding gloss, texture, or special effects to make materials stand out.
Durability & Sustainability – Reducing waste by increasing durability and product lifespan.
A well-executed finish does more than preserve your print—it elevates and differentiates it.
Varnishes are one of the most affordable ways to add a subtle protective layer to printed materials. Applied inline during the printing process, varnishes enhance visuals and prevent smudging without significantly altering the substrate’s feel.
Reducing scuffing and fingerprints on brochures, catalogs, and book covers.
Adding a gloss, matte, or satin sheen for a polished finish.
Creating design contrast with gloss and matte varnishes.
While varnishes offer light protection, they are not as durable or sustainable as modern coatings. For a greener and more protective option, aqueous and UV coatings are the preferred choice.
Aqueous coatings (AQ) are water-based, eco-friendly coatings that offer stronger protection than varnish while adding a smooth, uniform finish. These coatings contain fewer VOCs (volatile organic compounds), making them a more sustainable option compared to traditional solvent-based coatings.
Gloss AQ – Produces a shiny finish that deepens colors and contrast.
Satin AQ – A balance between gloss and matte for a soft sheen.
Matte AQ – Reduces glare for a sophisticated, high-end feel.
Best For:
Business cards, brochures, and catalogs needing vibrant colors and a protective layer.
Packaging and retail displays that need added durability.
Luxury print materials that require a premium look with an eco-conscious approach.
Aqueous coatings are a better environmental choice than older varnishes and laminates—offering a strong protective layer while still being recyclable.
For projects that demand high-end aesthetics and extreme durability, UV coatings are the gold standard. Unlike aqueous coatings, UV coatings cure instantly under ultraviolet light, creating a resilient finish that enhances color and provides superior resistance to scratching, smudging, and moisture.
Satin UV – A smoother, less reflective finish that adds a refined look.
Soft-Touch UV – A luxurious, velvety texture that enhances perceived value.
Spot UV – A contrast technique that mixes matte and gloss for a layered effect.
Enhanced durability – Protects print materials from handling damage.
Eco-friendlier than traditional varnishes – UV coatings are free from solvents and dry instantly, reducing emissions and waste.
Stand-out branding – High-impact finishes give a premium feel that differentiates your brand.
Best For:
Luxury packaging & premium brochures
High-end business cards & invitations
Retail displays & signage needing high durability
If you really want to make an impact, foil stamping and metallic effects add high-end embellishments that make your materials shine—literally.
Foil applications come in gold, silver, copper, holographic, and custom colors, giving materials a premium, upscale appeal. When paired with embossing or debossing, it creates a raised or recessed effect for added depth and texture.
Luxury packaging and invitations
High-end business cards and stationery
Product labels & premium marketing collateral
Foil stamping instantly differentiates your brand, adding perceived value and exclusivity.
Throughout this series, we’ve explored a wide variety of substrates—each serving a unique role in branding, marketing, and communication. But it’s the finishing touches that set great brands apart.
A soft-touch coating on a business card signals luxury and sophistication.
A gloss UV finish on packaging enhances color and makes products pop on the shelf.
A spot UV effect on a brochure draws the eye to key elements of a design.
A foil accent on a label immediately elevates the perception of a product.
When every brand is competing for attention, the right finish doesn’t just protect—it helps you stand out.
At Thysse, we don’t just print—we craft brand experiences. Our expertise in coatings, specialty finishes, and material selection ensures that your printed materials don’t just exist—they make an impact.
If you're ready to explore coatings, finishes, or any of the substrates we’ve covered in this series, reach out! We’re here to help your next project exceed expectations!
