Much more than just a finish
What is selective varnish?
Selective varnishing is a finishing technique that relies on the application of a transparent varnish to specific areas of your visuals.
Subtly applied, it highlights a logo, text, or any other graphic element by adding shine. It can also be used in the form of patterns on a solid color to add a touch of refinement and originality. Applied to a laminated surface, it creates a subtle interplay between the matte finish of the surface and the shine of the varnish.
Much more than a simple finish, selective varnish is a true sensory experience that stimulates the senses and invites touch.
A three-dimensional tactile effect
3D selective varnish, what’s the difference?
Unlike 2D selective varnish, 3D selective varnish, applied in a thicker layer, allows for the creation of creative and original reliefs. Depending on the grayscale applied to the print file, the machine applies the varnish in a more or less thick layer. From one corner of the support to the other, the thickness of the varnish can be modulated by a few microns. While 2D selective varnish offers a primarily visual result, 3D selective varnish also provides a tactile and three-dimensional effect.
While the primary function of selective varnish is to improve the aesthetics of a print, it also helps improve the accessibility of materials for the visually impaired. Applied in sufficient quantity, the varnish can create the relief necessary for reading Braille characters.
Our expertise in the service of accessibility
Rethink spot polish with textures
3D spot varnish opens the door to limitless creativity. While the varnish can highlight specific areas of your visuals, its power doesn't stop there. By varying the thickness of the varnish, it's possible to faithfully reproduce wood grain, leather grain, or any other texture. By repeating multiple patterns, our machine can transform a simple flat color into a truly tactile experience. With spot varnish, the wow effect is no longer an option.
The only limit? Your imagination.
Even more customization
The rise of digital technology has significantly expanded the possibilities for finishing. Thanks to new selective varnish printing techniques, it is now possible to expand the scope of customization and accelerate production times for shorter runs.
Dreaming of a different varnish on each card in your Tarot deck? It's possible thanks to the integration of unique QR codes.
Want to create two versions of your business cards, each with its own design? It's possible.
Same brochure, but with a varnish effect on the title for the first and on the image for the second? That's possible too.
To take your customization even further, we recommend combining 2D or 3D selective varnish with hot foil stamping, for a guaranteed wow effect!
As you can see, spot varnish is a true creative playground. The only limit? Your imagination.
Much more than just a finish
Sensory marketing: a remarkable ally
A solid, well-constructed marketing strategy is the foundation of any growth. But in a world saturated with stimuli, businesses must constantly innovate to carve out a niche for themselves. How do you pique consumers' interest? How do you make an original impression? How do you stand out in a highly competitive environment? This is where selective varnishing comes into play.
Much more than a simple finish, selective varnish printing offers real added value to your prints.
By incorporating selective varnish into your communications, you're not just capturing your customers' attention. You're also inviting them into a sensory and immersive world.
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By playing on the senses, you make an impression and position your brand as unique and creative. Touch, in particular, plays a key role: it piques curiosity, encourages sensory discovery, and promotes memory.
Attract the eye and encourage touch
For which media?
Brochure covers, business cards, restaurant menus—spot varnish finds its place on many media. Subtly applied, it catches the eye, invites touch, and gives your prints a premium feel.
- Covers, brochures, leaflets
- Business cards, loyalty cards
- Greeting cards, thank you cards
- Invitation cards and announcements
- Cardboard cases, bell boxes, rigid boxes
- Menu cards, bottle decorations
- Ticketing, secure documents with watermark
- Postal routing, postcards
- Calendars, advertising prints
Technical constraints
Selective varnish can be applied to any type of paper as long as it does not exceed a format of 330 x 750 mm and a thickness of 0.45 mm. Compliance with these constraints is essential for the machine to accept your print job.
We recommend applying the selective varnish to a surface that has been previously coated with Soft Touch Matte. Its peach-skin texture allows for optimal varnish adhesion. If you do not want lamination, we will not be able to create a surface with varnish on a cut line or fold.
If you wish to apply hot foil to your support, please note that we will apply a first layer of selective varnish which will act as glue. We will then stick the foil onto the previously applied varnish.
Need help?
To add spot varnish to your file, we recommend referring to our DTP guide.
If you are unable to prepare your file for spot varnishing, our team can provide the necessary assistance, depending on the nature of your source file. Our team is available by email at devis@printeurope.fr to assist you.
