Satin Varnish vs Matte: Understanding Print Packaging Finishes

Introduction to Print Packaging Finishes

When it comes to designing your product's packaging, there are a lot of things to consider. From bag size, material, and colours to the level of protection and different accessories, all are equally important to how your bag functions and looks. One area that's often overlooked by most people is the protective finish. Selecting the right protective layer and finish requires more than just going with your gut -- generally speaking, certain finishes offer better durability and are more resistant to scratches, while others can help create a more premium or high-quality look.

In this blog, we'll guide you through two popular finishes (matte varnish and non-shiny or glossy finish), their difference and similarities, visual and tactile effects and details, and how they influence the overall packaging experience. Read on to learn more about these two popular surface varnishes.

What is Satin Finish?

A satin finish, often referred to as soft touch, gives your product the ultimate feel of luxury. If you've ever held packaging that feels like soft suede, this is an example of a package with a satin finish. In addition to its tactile feel, a satin varnish also renders colors amazingly well. Blacks will look deeper, reds will look brighter, and blues will look as clear as the sky. If your brand's colors have looked dull and flat in the past, make no mistake -- you can't go wrong with a satin finish this time around

Satin varnishes offer several unique benefits, including a heightened visual appeal, a tactile sensation your customers simply won't be able to experience with other materials, protection against scratches and other damage, and a sense of quality and sophistication. If you're looking to enhance your brand

What is Matte Varnish?

Matte varnishes have become very popular in the last few years, as they offer a good alternative to the high gloss or semi gloss finishes that customers are accustomed to. Within the matte category, there are two primary types of matte finishes (or matting agent) that we offer:

Matte Lamination

With this option, the entire outer surface of the bag will have a matte lamination. This option is slightly less expensive than the other two. Pros include its cost effectiveness, and cons include its lack of barrier properties against oxygen and humidity.

Matt Varnish Coating

A matte varnish coating can be applied as a "spot" treatment, meaning only certain parts of your bag will have a matte look. Pros: less susceptible to scuffing since it's not included on the entire bag; cons: requires more than one plate, making it more expensive.

As you can see, which you choose between the two ultimately comes down to personal preference. All three are high-quality model that will help enhance the durability and style of your bag.

Matte Finish vs. Satin Varnish: Key Differences

The primary differences between a matte varnish and a satin -finish can be divided into the following categories:

Appearance- A matte finish provides a slightly chalky look, while satin can have more gloss in certain areas of the pouch. This ultimately depends on the thickness of the final coat.
Protection- While both finish options will protect the packaging from finger oils, smudges, and scuffs, packaging with a matte finish is slightly more protective against wear and tear.
Uses- Matte finishing is often used for luxury goods, while bags with a satin finish is a good middle ground between matte and gloss.

If you're seeking a non-reflective finish that will give your packaging a more subdued look, you can't go wrong with either of the non-gloss varnish options discussed in this blog. Unlike packaging with a gloss varnish, bags with matte and satin finishes won't reflect lighting or look shiny in the sun.

Perfect Your Packaging with CarePac

Now that you understand the importance of selecting the right finish, you're probably wondering how to get started with your custom packaging design. Fortunately, it's easy! By partnering with a custom packaging design company (like us!), you can let us handle all the hard work while you sit back, relax, and wait for us to send you some designs to approve.

With commercial-grade, FDA-approved barrier packaging available in a variety of sizes and configurations, we can craft a bag that will suit your unique needs. Whether you are just starting a new project or considering switching packaging suppliers, talk with us to see how your product can benefit from our high-quality and fully customizable packaging.

Non-Gloss Varnish: FAQs

Here are some common questions we receive about our non-gloss varnish options, including satin and matte finishes.

What is matte packaging?

Matte packaging is a type of packaging that uses an acrylic varnish to create a "softer" look and smooth texture. It's not reflective and you won't need to worry about fingerprints or glare.

What is satin packaging?

Satin packaging is packaging that uses a satin finish, which falls somewhere between a matte and gloss. Often referred to as "soft touch" packaging, satin varnished pouches create a premium, non-dull, non-shiny, and high-quality feel.

Satin Varnish vs Matte: Understanding Print Packaging Finishes

Introduction to Print Packaging Finishes

What is Satin Finish?