Paper and board finishes.
The use of finishes · Technical principles
Revision notes
Paper and Board Finishing
Finishing processes are used to protect the material from spills and dirt while enhancing its tactile and visual appeal.
Lamination
Encapsulation: The document is sealed entirely within a polymer pouch or film roll using a desktop laminator.
Surface Coating: *
Liquid Lamination: Often used for large-scale signage.
Film Lamination: Used for items like menu cards to provide a wipe-clean surface.
Physical Surface Effects
Embossing: Creates a raised design on the surface of the paper or card. It provides a premium visual and tactile effect, often seen on greetings cards and luxury packaging.
Debossing: The opposite of embossing; it produces an imprinted depression that sits below the surface of the paper.
Varnishing
Clear, non-pigmented inks applied to pre-coated papers to enhance color and offer protection against fingerprints and water.
UV Varnishing: Provides a very smooth finish (high gloss or matt). It is cured instantly under UV light, making it resistant to chemicals and abrasion.
Spot Varnishing: Applied only to specific spots or areas of a design to create a contrast between glossy and matt sections.
Foil Blocking
Heat and pressure are used to apply a metallic paper (foil) to the substrate. This adds depth, texture, and a high-end aesthetic impact.
Exam practice from my notes
15 Outline the factors that a manufacturer needs to consider before choosing a surface finish for a product. [6]
A manufacturer must consider how the surface finish will be applied. Large products may require spray application, while smaller components could be dip coated or powder coated. The material being finished also affects the method used, as some finishes are only suitable for metals, plastics or woods.
Performance requirements are important because the finish may need to protect the product from corrosion, moisture, UV light or abrasion. For example, galvanising may be used on steel to prevent rusting outdoors.
Durability must also be considered. A finish used on a frequently handled product should resist wear, scratching and impact to maintain the product’s appearance over time.
Aesthetics are another factor, as the finish contributes to the final appearance of the product through colour, texture and gloss level. A high-gloss finish may create a premium appearance, while a matte finish may reduce fingerprints.
Manufacturers should also consider maintenance requirements. Some finishes may need regular cleaning, reapplication or polishing, increasing long-term costs.
Cost and environmental impact are also important. Certain finishes may require specialist equipment, increase production time or release harmful VOCs, so manufacturers may choose more sustainable alternatives.
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