Box finishes explained: matte, gloss, soft-touch, foil and spot UV

A finish changes how a box looks and feels without changing its structure. Most finishes add 5 to 20 percent to the unit price. Pick one or two that fit your brand and leave the rest.

Matte lamination

A thin film that gives a flat, smooth surface with low glare. It makes dark colors look deeper and shows fewer fingerprints than gloss. It adds a plastic layer, so ask about aqueous coating if you want an easier-to-recycle option.

Gloss lamination

A shiny film that makes colors look brighter. It suits bold, colorful designs. It can show fingerprints and scuffs more.

Soft-touch lamination

A velvety matte film that feels almost like suede. It is a favorite for premium beauty and gift boxes. It is more expensive and can mark if rubbed hard, so avoid it on boxes that will scrape in transit.

Spot UV

A glossy varnish applied to one part of the design, such as a logo or pattern, against a matte base. It creates contrast you can see and feel. The artwork needs a separate layer that marks where the varnish goes.

Foil stamping

A thin metallic layer pressed onto the board with heat. Gold and silver are the most common, with several colors available. Keep lines bolder than about 0.3 mm because fine hairlines can fill in.

Emboss and deboss

A die raises (emboss) or presses in (deboss) part of the design. It adds a tactile detail without any ink. Pair it with foil for a stronger effect.

Aqueous coating

A water-based clear coat applied during printing. It protects against light rubbing and is generally the easiest finish to recycle. It does not give the same feel as lamination.

Which finishes affect recycling?

Plastic film laminates and some foils can make paper recycling harder. Water-based coatings are generally the easiest. If you plan to put a recyclability claim on the box, check your local rules and read our claims guide.

A simple way to choose

• Natural, earthy brand: kraft board with no finish or aqueous coating.
• Premium beauty: soft-touch with a foil logo.
• Bold and playful: gloss or spot UV on a bright print.
• Minimal luxury: emboss only, no ink.