What is varnish?

Varnish is a liquid finish applied to the paper layer of your packaging. One of the most common varnishes used today is an aqueous varnish, which is a water-based varnish that is applied to your printed artwork to help seal the ink. These types of varnishes are most commonly available in a matte or glossy style, and are also available as a UV varnish if required. Because a varnish is water-based, this is the most sustainable finish option.

What is lamination?

Lamination is the process of applying a very thin, plastic film (e.g. polypropylene) to your printed materials to protect the ink and enhance its appearance. Lamination provides the ultimate protection for your print (more so than varnish), and greatly minimizes the appearance of small cracks or creases, especially when it comes to materials that are thicker. Lamination is water resistant and also helps keep your boxes moisture-free. Since it provides a greater level of protection than varnish, it is more expensive.

However, the downside to lamination is that it makes your boxes non-biodegradable and not 100% recyclable, simply because lamination uses a thin layer of plastic film. If sustainability is on your list of must-haves, we'd recommend taking a look at varnishes.

The most common lamination styles include matte lamination (smooth) and glossy lamination (shiny). Most rigid boxes have a matte lamination, which adds to the premium aspect of your packaging.

Process Day is time taken for print & finishing only, not include graphic artwork design time and courier delivery shipping time.

Process Day subject to change if file is not sent on time or problem persists throughout the process of proofing or production.

Order Cut Off Time (Including Artwork): 12:00PM
Additional 1 Day For Cut Off Time After 12:00PM
Delivery / Self-Pick Up Time: 4.30PM