The Finishing Touches

The Finishing Touches

We are often asked about print finish options, so we thought we’d summarise a few points in this article.

When you think of a cardboard packaging, does a plain brown corrugated box spring to mind?

It doesn’t have to be like that! An extensive range of print finishes can be used to transform the humble cardboard box  into bright and appealing retail packaging.

Colour: Tell a Story in Print

Our associations with specific colours mean that even with a limited palette, we can begin to tell a story about the product inside.

• Rich red instantly suggests fiery spices, intensity, passion or danger.
• Yellow is cheerful, light, attention grabbing and often associated with fun products.
• Cool blue suggests professionalism and sincerity. It makes us feel colder and calmer.
• Green is associated with nature, growth, healing and peace.

A box manufacturer can print in exact colour matches, so whether it’s showcasing your company branding or sending the right message with your product packaging, we can help.

We can also advise you on the best printing process to achieve the effect you desire. Here’s a few of the options that we offer:

Flexographic Print

There are many different methods for printing boxes and other cardboard packaging. The most popular is flexographic print. This option provides a good quality finish, at an economical price. Large print runs can be achieved at speed, with accurate repeatability.

Digital Print

When we produce sample packaging, prototypes and other low volume runs, digital printing is often the preferred option. It offers a quality finish and intricate detailing can be achieved.

Litho Lamination

Premium quality products are often printed using the litho lamination process. This gives an exceptional finish, with a visually appealing silk gloss or smooth matt finish. It is often used in Point of Sale (PoS) packaging, especially for luxury goods. The litho lamination process also adds strength to cardboard packaging.

It’s all in the Detail – In addition to colour, print can be used to create wonderful details in your packaging design. Some examples are outlined below:

Foil Lamination

Silver or gold detailing can certainly help a product to stand out from the crowd and is especially popular when it comes to cardboard packaging for gift items.

Spot Gloss

A gloss print on a matte background can create a wonderful effect. If the same colour is used, the effect is subtle, but contrasts can create a dramatic finish.

Embossing

Not a print process, but fabulous effects can be achieved by creating inward or outward indentations in the cardboard. As there is no colour change this is a textural finish and it can be used for stunning results.

In summary, there are lots of different options when it comes to transforming a plain cardboard box into retail packaging.

As a box manufacturer, our knowledge and experience can help you get the results you desire. Tell us what you want and we’ll let you know how it can be achieved!