Printing and finishing? Printing: Art paper absorbs ink differently (colour matching required for proofs); dark colours may be obscured (a base coat is required). Finishing: Hot foil stamping (overlay); spot UV (for added shine). For finishing details, follow the design brief.
The case for pearlescent paper: Pearlescent paper offers a shimmering effect; the texture provides a tactile sensation; art paper offers distinct characteristics — once you’ve clearly defined ‘what to touch and what to print’, the cost of art paper is well spent on its texture.
First, decide what you want to feel. The role of art paper: texture (tactile feel), sheen (pearlescence) and colour rendering (printing); first distinguish between ‘wanting pearlescence’ (shimmer) and ‘wanting texture’ (skin-friendly) before finalising the plan — pearlescence conveys luxury, whilst texture conveys warmth.
Pearlescent paper embodies ‘understated luxury’ in packaging: when light hits it, the surface emits a delicate pearlescent sheen, lending a sense of breathability beyond that of standard art paper — if the wrong art paper is chosen, the texture of the gift box will be limited to the surface alone. This article explains how to select pearlescent paper; clients commissioning bespoke high-end gift boxes may refer to it as required.
What are the characteristics of pearlescent paper? Pearlescent paper (pearlescent coating): with a delicate sheen and rich layering, it is suitable for ‘exquisite gift boxes’ — cosmetics, jewellery, and perfumes; drawbacks: generally unsuitable for dark-coloured printing and prone to creasing. When selecting pearlescent paper, the guiding principle is ‘lustrous without being garish’.
How about textured paper? Textured paper (textured coating): silky smooth against the skin with a sophisticated matt finish, suitable for ‘premium tactile experiences’—such as skincare, corporate gifts and stationery; drawbacks: high cost and average abrasion resistance. When selecting textured paper, aim for a finish that conveys ‘tangible luxury’.
What about art paper? Art paper (speciality paper): rich in texture (cloth-like, cloud-like patterns) and highly distinctive, suitable for ‘brand identity’—tea, cultural and creative products, and alcoholic beverages; disadvantages: printability varies (proofing required). When selecting art paper, the guiding principle is ‘printable and distinctive’.
