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What Is Varnish Finishing?
Varnish is a clear coating applied after printing to add shine, texture or protection. Full varnish coats the entire label; spot varnish targets specific design elements, such as a logo, to create contrast.
Finishes
Varnish Finishes
Varnish can protect the whole label surface, or highlight a single design element, applied after printing in gloss, matt or a raised, tactile high build texture.
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Key Benefits of Varnish Finishes
Full Surface Protection
Coats the entire label for consistent shine, texture and protection against handling.
Targeted Visual Impact
Spot varnish, sometimes called spot UV, highlights specific design elements, such as a logo, for added contrast.
High Build Tactile Texture
Creates a raised, 3D effect that adds a physical, touchable dimension to your design.
Distinctive Textured Finish
Our rough, sandpaper-style textured varnish, pioneered for the craft beer industry, adds a bold tactile finish.
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Full Varnish vs Spot Varnish
Many labels use both: a full varnish across the surface with a spot varnish accent on a key design element.
Full Varnish
Best for consistent protection across the entire label and a gloss or matt finish.
Spot Varnish
Best for highlighting specific design elements, such as a logo or border, and a raised high build or textured effect.
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Common Applications
- Beverage
- Personal Care
- Retail and Promotion
- Food
FAQs
Frequently Asked Questions
01What's the difference between full and spot varnish?
Full varnish coats the entire label for consistent shine, texture or protection, while spot varnish targets specific design elements, such as a logo, to create contrast.
02What is high build varnish?
High build varnish creates a raised, tactile texture on the label, adding a physical dimension to specific design elements.
03Can varnish be combined with foiling or lamination?
Yes. Varnish is applied as a finishing step and can be combined with foiling, laminates or silk screen on the same label.
04Does varnish work on both digital and flexographic labels?
Yes. Varnish is a finishing step that suits labels produced on either process.
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