When it comes to printing, there are various techniques used to enhance the appearance and durability of printed materials. Two common methods are lamination and varnishing. While they both aim to improve the quality of printed products, they differ in their application and effects. Let’s delve into what sets them apart.
Lamination
Lamination involves applying a thin layer of plastic film onto the surface of a printed material. This film is typically made of polypropylene or polyester and is applied using heat and pressure. The process creates a protective barrier around the printed surface, shielding it from moisture, dirt, and damage.
1. Benefits of Lamination
- Lamination provides a high level of protection against wear and tear, making printed materials more durable. Laminated material cannot be torn by hand.
- There is a wide variety of lamination materials available in the market, such as matte, glossy, scratch-proof, velvet, metallic, leather finish, sandy finish, and so much more. So you have the luxury of choosing any finish according to the feel you are looking for.
- The plastic film used in lamination creates a waterproof barrier, preventing water damage to the printed material.
2. Disadvantages of Lamination
- Lamination needs extra machinery with specialized units as it includes thermal and pressure pressing.
- For FMCG products in which there is direct contact with food, lamination is not recommended.
- Lamination is expensive when compared to varnishing.
Varnishing
Varnishing involves applying a liquid coating onto the surface of printed materials. This coating, known as varnish, can be either water-based or oil-based and is applied using a printing press or a specialized varnishing machine. Varnish enhances the appearance of the printed material by adding a glossy, satin, or matte finish. It also provides some level of protection against moisture and abrasion.
1. Benefits of Varnishing
- Varnishing can be applied on printed material easily in the offset machine itself. This makes it a quick and easy process.
- Varnishing is cheaper for bulk quantity than lamination.
- Varnishing like PE coating is recommended for FMCG products like burger boxes and sandwich papers.
2. Disadvantages of Varnishing
- Varnishing is mainly used as a sealant for ink rather than a protection against wear and tear. Varnishes materials can be torn by hand also.
- Varnishing also doesn’t give complete protection against any liquid.
- The types of varnishing available are limited to options like matte, glossy, and satin.
Your Takeaway
Lamination and varnishing might look the same once done but serve entirely different purposes. If you are looking to protect your projects against wear, tear, and liquids, along with giving a finish of your choice, lamination will be your perfect pick. However, if you have a limited budget and if you are okay with minimal protection with a normal matte or glossy finish, then varnishing will be the choice for you. This also will depend on the type of product and quantity you are going to print.