In today’s highly digital world, print materials that engage the senses—especially touch—are an effective way to leave a lasting impression on potential customers. One advanced finishing technique that stands out in commercial printing for its ability to elevate tactile marketing experiences is soft-touch coating. This specialized coating gives printed materials a velvety texture, transforming ordinary brochures, business cards, and packaging into premium pieces that command attention and convey luxury.
At APPi, we specialize in applying soft-touch coating to help brands create meaningful, sensory connections with their audience. This article will explore the technical aspects of soft-touch coating, its marketing benefits, and how APPi uses this technique to help brands enhance their print materials.
What Is Soft-Touch Coating?
Soft-touch coating is a unique, matte finish applied to the surface of printed materials that creates a soft, velvety texture. The coating is applied as a liquid or film to the substrate, giving the material a smooth, almost suede-like feel. This tactile quality adds depth and sophistication to the printed piece, setting it apart from standard finishes like gloss or matte coatings.
How Soft-Touch Coating Works
Soft-touch coating is applied as the final step in the commercial printing process, usually as a liquid UV coating or a laminate film. Here’s a breakdown of how the process works:
- Application: The soft-touch coating is applied to the printed surface, either through a liquid spray or as a film laminate. In UV coating, the liquid is cured under ultraviolet light, which hardens the coating and locks in the soft texture. Film laminates involve adhering a thin, soft-touch film to the surface of the print material.
- Drying: If a liquid UV coating is used, the material is passed through a UV light curing unit, ensuring that the coating dries instantly. This process ensures a durable, long-lasting finish.
- Final Finish: Once the coating or laminate is applied, the result is a smooth, velvety finish that adds a sense of luxury to the printed piece. Unlike traditional matte coatings, soft-touch coating enhances both the tactile and visual appeal of the print material.
At APPi, we use advanced coating technology to achieve a consistently high-quality soft-touch finish, helping brands create premium print materials that leave a lasting impression.
Marketing Benefits of Soft-Touch Coating
The addition of soft-touch coating offers more than just aesthetic appeal. It can significantly enhance a brand’s marketing efforts by improving how customers perceive the quality and value of the printed material. Here are some of the key marketing benefits of using soft-touch coating in commercial printing:
- Enhanced Tactile Experience
Humans are naturally drawn to textures, and the soft, velvety finish of soft-touch coating creates an engaging tactile experience that encourages recipients to interact with the material. This level of engagement increases the chances of a printed piece being remembered and appreciated. Whether it’s a business card, brochure, or product packaging, the added sensory dimension can create a stronger emotional connection between the brand and the customer.
- Perception of Luxury and Quality
Adding a soft-touch coating to a printed piece instantly elevates its perceived value. The velvety texture is commonly associated with luxury and sophistication, making it ideal for high-end brands that want to communicate exclusivity and quality. Whether used in product packaging, invitations, or marketing materials, the coating conveys a sense of premium craftsmanship.
- Improved Durability
In addition to its sensory benefits, soft-touch coating also improves the durability of printed materials. The coating adds a protective layer that resists fingerprints, scuffs, and wear, ensuring that the printed piece maintains its high-quality appearance even after handling. This makes it an excellent choice for materials that will be frequently touched or distributed, such as business cards or brochures.
- Brand Differentiation
In a crowded marketplace, standing out is essential for any brand. Using soft-touch coating allows businesses to differentiate their print materials from competitors. The unique texture of the coating provides a memorable sensory experience that digital advertising cannot replicate, making printed materials with soft-touch coating a powerful tool in any marketing campaign.
Applications of Soft-Touch Coating in Print Materials
The versatility of soft-touch coating makes it an excellent choice for a variety of printed materials, particularly those designed to make a strong first impression or represent a brand’s identity.
- Business Cards
A well-designed business card with a soft-touch coating can set the tone for future business relationships. The velvety texture adds a sense of refinement and professionalism, ensuring that the card won’t go unnoticed or discarded. At APPi, we help clients create business cards that not only look great but also feel luxurious, enhancing their personal or corporate brand.
- Brochures and Marketing Collateral
Brochures, booklets, and other marketing materials benefit from the high-quality, tactile finish that soft-touch coating offers. These materials are often used to present products, services, or company information, and adding a soft-touch coating can make them more memorable and visually appealing. A smooth, velvety feel makes the brochure stand out from traditional printed materials, increasing the likelihood of engagement.
- Product Packaging
In industries like cosmetics, luxury goods, and electronics, product packaging is more than just a container; it’s an extension of the brand. Soft-touch coating is an excellent choice for high-end packaging, adding a premium feel that elevates the overall customer experience. APPi specializes in creating product packaging that incorporates soft-touch coatings, helping businesses enhance the perceived value of their products through superior packaging design.
- Invitations and Event Materials
For weddings, corporate events, and high-profile gatherings, invitations set the stage for the event’s tone and importance. Invitations with soft-touch coating convey elegance and exclusivity, making the recipient feel special from the moment they receive the invitation. At APPi, we work closely with clients to design event materials that leave a lasting impression, using innovative finishes like soft-touch coating to make the experience memorable.
Innovation in Tactile Printing at APPi
At APPi, we are dedicated to staying at the forefront of innovation in the commercial printing industry. Our investment in the latest printing technologies allows us to offer advanced finishing techniques like soft-touch coating, ensuring that our clients receive high-quality, tactile print materials that enhance their brand identity.
Our experienced team of printing experts works closely with clients to understand their brand and marketing goals, ensuring that every piece we produce aligns with their vision. Whether you’re creating business cards, brochures, or product packaging, APPi has the equipment and expertise to bring your ideas to life with innovative finishes that leave a lasting impression.
Conclusion
In the competitive world of commercial printing, creating a memorable, tactile experience can significantly impact how a brand is perceived. Soft-touch coating is an advanced finishing technique that adds a luxurious, velvety texture to printed materials, enhancing both the look and feel of business cards, brochures, packaging, and more. By incorporating soft-touch coating into your print projects, you can elevate your marketing efforts and create stronger connections with your target audience.
At APPi, we specialize in using innovative techniques like soft-touch coating to help brands stand out in the marketplace. By offering premium finishing options and exceptional craftsmanship, we ensure that every print project reflects the highest standards of quality and sophistication.
If you found this article helpful, be sure to visit our latest piece on our Ink Pedia Blog for more insights into sustainable practices, innovative technologies, and effective strategies to enhance your brand. Don’t miss out on valuable information that can take your printing projects to the next level!
Looking to make a lasting impression? Explore our catalog of promotional products for unique, customizable items that elevate your brand. From custom apparel to branded merchandise, we have everything you need to leave a memorable mark at events and beyond. Visit now to find the perfect promotional items for your next campaign!
