Varnish vs. Laminate Label Coatings
Labels can be finished in a wide variety of coatings to enhance both their visual appeal and their durability. Two of the most common types of label coatings are varnish and laminate, which can both result in a robust label with an eye-catching finish.
But assuming both of these coatings are viable options for your labels, which is best? Are there benefits to varnish over laminate, or is laminate the clear choice where available?
As with most things, it is a case of pairing your requirements and objectives with the more suitable of the two options. Neither is ‘better’ than the other outright, as they both have their own unique points of appeal to consider.
Varnish Label Coatings
For example, varnish can be applied on top of a custom printed label to protect the ink and the material with a durable seal. This keeps the service of the label safe from scuffs and abrasions, with the added bonus of a gorgeous glossy glow.
Varnish label coatings are typically cheaper than laminate, but do not have quite the same extensive lifespan. Hence, it is a useful option for labels that will be used for a finite period of time, rather than those that need to retain their properties (visual and structural) indefinitely.
In addition, glossy varnish is typically not quite as shiny as laminate, but comes pretty close.
Spot varnishes
Another option is spot varnish, which is where glossy varnish is applied only to specific parts of a label. This can create a uniquely eye-catching finish, wherein the label as a whole has a matte finish but certain parts are produced with a glossy finish.
If you are looking to create truly original labels that stand out as something unique, this could be the way to go.
Laminate Label Coatings
As for laminate coatings, laminate provides the highest possible level of protection for your labels. This protective layer is applied in the form of a thin bi-oriented polypropylene film (BOPP) or Thermal Transfer (TT) polyester, which is added to the surface of the label after printing to safeguard the surface from damage.
Laminate protective coatings are great for labels that are likely to be exposed to harsh environmental conditions, including moisture, rapid temperature changes and (in some cases) chemicals or oils. You can expose a high-quality laminate label to just about anything and it will continue to look as good as new.
Most labels protected with a laminate are glossy, but there is also the option of a matte laminate finish, if preferred. Laminate coatings can be applied to a wide variety of different materials, though must be applied to the surface of the label as a whole — spot finishing is not normally an option.
In addition, laminate label coatings typically cost more than varnish coverings, but can also have an indefinite lifespan. For labels to be used long-term (or in potentially harsh environments), laminate protective coatings represent outstanding value for money.
Craig Upton supports UK businesses by increasing sales growth using various marketing solutions online. Creating strategic partnerships and keen focus to detail, Craig equips websites with the right tools to rank in organic search. Craig is also the CEO of iCONQUER, a UK based SEO Firm and has been working in the digital marketing arena for many years. A trusted SEO consultant and trainer, Craig has worked with British brands such as FT.com, djkit.com, Mercury Labels, Serimax and has also supported UK doctors, solicitors and property developers to gain more exposure online. Craig has gained a wealth of knowledge using Google and is committed to creating new opportunities and partnerships.
