Print Finishes Explained: Aqueous Coating vs UV Coating
Applying a liquid coating to your printed materials is essential for protecting the ink from scuffs, scratches, and fading. However, the type of coating you choose drastically alters the visual impact of your marketing. The two most prominent liquid finishes in commercial printing are Aqueous Coating and UV Coating. Here is how to choose between them.
The Subtle Protection of Aqueous Coating
Aqueous coating is a fast-drying, water-based clear coat applied over the entire printed sheet.
- The Look: It provides a subtle matte or satin seal that does not drastically alter the color of the ink.
- The Function: It is highly eco-friendly and provides an excellent protective barrier against dirt and scuffing without adding heavy glare.
The High Impact of UV Coating
UV coating is a clear liquid spread over the paper and instantly cured using heavy ultraviolet light.
- The Shine: It creates an ultra-high-gloss, glass-like finish that makes colors look incredibly deep and vibrant.
- The Durability: It is significantly thicker and more protective than aqueous coating, making it the toughest liquid finish available.
The Raven32 Recommendation
Choosing the right finish depends entirely on how the customer handles the paper. UV gloss is incredible for striking postcards, but it shows fingerprints easily. As your printing and promotional experts, we believe Aqueous coating is perfect for multi-page brochures because it prevents massive fingerprint smudges while your client flips through the pages. Let our team add the perfect finish to your next major print run.