Coatings and What You Need to Know!

A common question asked by our customers, What are paper coatings? And how are they used. When samples are available it helps to explain the feel and characteristics of them. But it is not always possible. So I am going to setout and try to explain what coatings are so you can get a better understand of the characteristics of each.

Below is a list of Different Coatings and their characteristics: Note Coatings can only be used with certain type of stock. When you are planning your printed project ask if the stock allows for coating options. Warning - Coating projects may increase the likelihood of cracking when folded and scored.

UV (Ultraviolet) Coating

• Cures under ultraviolet lighting to speed drying process

• Stronger protection to wear and tear vs AQ and varnish

• Very high Shine

• Can not be written on except Sharpie - takes long time not to smear

• Matte or Gloss finish - can be used in spot UC effects

• Yellowing is likely over period of time

AQ (Aqueous) Coating

• Water-based and more environmentally friendly than most coatings

• Very little protection against ware and tear

• Very little shine

• Most of the time be written on with ball-point pen - Gel Pins and pencils will have problems writing on this coating.

• Matte or Gloss finish

• Preserves Color reducing fading or yellowing

Varnish

• Clear Printing Ink

• Very little protection against ware and tear

• Very little shine

• Most of the time be written on with ball-point pen - Gel Pins and pencils will have problems writing on this coating

• Matte or Gloss finish - can be used in spot varnish

• Fading and yellowing is likely over period of time

Special Coatings

• Added separately after the printing process

• Give add textures and effects to items printed

• Very little protection against ware and tear

• Some examples are Raised UV Coating, Glitter, and felt finish