What Is Varnish?
Updated · Vorex Packaging
Varnish is a clear liquid coating printed over packaging artwork to protect it and change its sheen, in gloss, satin or matte. It can cover the whole surface (flood varnish) or only selected areas (spot varnish), and it is applied on the press like an extra ink, which makes it a simple protective finish.
Traditional press varnish is oil based and applied from a printing unit, the same way an ink is. It seals the printed surface and can highlight or tone down areas of the design.
Common types
- Flood varnish: covers the entire printed area for even protection.
- Spot varnish: applied only to chosen areas to create contrast.
- UV varnish: cured with ultraviolet light for a harder, higher gloss, as in spot UV.
When to use it
Varnish is useful when you want some protection and sheen without the cost and plastic film of lamination. It is thinner than aqueous coating or lamination, so its protection is lighter. Some printers use the words varnish and coating loosely, so when you request a quote, describe the look you want, such as matte with glossy logo, and ask which finish they suggest for your box and material.
