Soft-touch, matte or gloss lamination: which one to choose?
- 15 May, 2026
Lamination — a thin film applied to a printed piece — protects the surface and radically transforms its finish. On a business card, a cover or a brochure, it's often the difference between “fine” and “wow”. Here's a quick comparison of the three most requested finishes.
Gloss lamination
It makes colours pop and adds contrast and energy. Ideal for photographic visuals, promotional materials and anything that needs to grab attention. The downside: it catches reflections and shows fingerprints more easily.
Matte lamination
Elegant and understated, it reduces glare for comfortable reading and an upmarket finish. Ideal for professional services, luxury brands and understated brand identities. It's also the perfect base for spot varnish (a glossy detail on a matte background).
Soft-touch lamination
The star of the moment: a soft, velvety, memorable feel that gives an immediate impression of quality. Ideal for premium business cards and materials designed to make an impression the moment they're picked up. Combine it with foil stamping or 3D varnish for maximum impact.
How to choose?
Bold, colourful visual → gloss. Understated, quality image → matte. Premium, tactile effect → soft-touch. Not sure? We'll show you samples. Discover our card printing or request a free quote.
Further reading
- 30 Jul 2026Signage and window graphics regulation: 2026 guide (Gers, Landes)
- 01 Jul 2026Mandatory Notices on Your Printed Materials | 2M Numérique
- 04 Jun 2026Cotton, Polyester or Organic: Choosing Your Custom Fabric
- 04 Jun 2026Rigid Panel or Banner: Which Outdoor Material?
- 04 Jun 2026Business Cards: 7 Mistakes to Avoid When Printing