Make Eye-Catching Packaging Boxes with Print Coatings
In packaging box printing Malaysia, creating packaging that stands out is just as important as protecting the product inside. One of the easiest ways to enhance your packaging design is through print coatings.
Print coatings protect boxes from scratches, smudges, and fingerprints while highlighting key design elements, making your product more appealing on shelves.
Here’s a detailed guide to the main coatings used in packaging box printing Malaysia and how they work.
1. Varnish Coating
Varnish is a clear coating applied during or after printing. It is one of the most affordable finishes in packaging box printing Malaysia.
Types of Varnish
Gloss varnish – Adds shine and makes colours vibrant. Ideal for toys, children’s products, or food packaging.
Matte varnish – Reduces shine for a soft, elegant look. Suitable for cosmetics or premium items.
Satin varnish – Between gloss and matte; natural appearance with extra protection against smudges.
Benefits:
Affordable and versatile
Protects against scratches and fingerprints
Works on most types of packaging
Drawbacks:
May yellow over time on unprinted areas
Less premium than lamination or UV coating
2. Spot Varnish
Spot varnish highlights specific areas of your packaging, such as logos, images, or text. An extra printing plate is used to apply varnish only where needed.
Why Use Spot Varnish?
Creates contrast between coated and non-coated areas
Adds depth and dimension to flat designs
Makes key elements stand out
A common technique in Malaysia is matte background with gloss spot varnish on product images or logos. This makes the main design pop effectively.
3. Water-Based Coating
Water-based or aqueous coating is environmentally friendly and increasingly popular in Malaysia.
Benefits
Recyclable and eco-friendly
Non-toxic and safe for food packaging
Quick-drying with a smooth finish
It is suitable for food boxes, beverage packaging, and eco-conscious brands. While it doesn’t provide the intense shine of UV, it gives a clean, modern look.
4. UV Coating
UV coating is a clear liquid cured with ultraviolet light, creating a glossy, durable layer.
Advantages of UV Coating
Highly shiny and vibrant
Scratch- and moisture-resistant
Enhances colour and image depth
Ideal for frequently handled packaging
Spot UV
Spot UV highlights specific areas instead of coating the entire box. It is thicker and shinier than spot varnish, giving your packaging a premium finish.
5. Lamination
Lamination involves applying a thin plastic film over the packaging to enhance durability and luxury.
Types of Lamination
Gloss lamination – Bright and vibrant, great for colourful packaging
Matte lamination – Soft and elegant; perfect for luxury or cosmetic products
Soft-touch lamination – Velvety premium feel for electronics, perfumes, or gift boxes
Benefits:
Most durable finish
Resistant to scratches and moisture
Increases perceived value
Drawbacks:
Higher cost
Not eco-friendly
Difficult to recycle
6. Advantages of Coatings in Packaging Box Printing Malaysia
Using coatings strategically can improve packaging in several ways:
Attract Attention
Coatings make designs more eye-catching:
Gloss spot UV highlights product images or logos
Matte backgrounds with gloss details create depth
Protect Your Packaging
Coatings prevent:
Scratches and scuffs
Fingerprints and smudges
Moisture or minor spills
Colour fading
Target Your Audience
Children: shiny gloss coatings
Luxury products: matte or soft-touch lamination
Eco-conscious brands: water-based coating
Increase Perceived Value
Well-finished packaging makes products look premium, even with simple designs.
7. Make Your Packaging Eye-Catching
Applying the right coatings can make your packaging stand out on shelves, protect your products, and reflect your brand’s quality.
If you want professional advice for packaging box printing Malaysia, contact us today. We can show samples, suggest the best coatings for your product, and help your packaging look both attractive and durable.