When it comes to printed marketing materials, great design gets attention, but print finishes are what transform that attention into a lasting impression. The finish you choose affects how your print looks, feels, and is perceived. In competitive markets details like texture, sheen and depth can make the difference between something that’s glanced at and something that’s remembered.

From business cards and brochures to flyers and presentation folders, choosing the right finish allows you to elevate everyday print into something that feels premium and considered.

Foiling: Adding Instant Luxury

Foiling introduces metallic highlights to specific areas of your design, such as logos, headings or patterns. Gold and silver remain classics, but rose gold, copper and holographic foils are increasingly popular with creative brands.

Foiling works particularly well on business cards, packaging and premium brochures. Used sparingly, it adds elegance without overpowering the design and is ideal for brands that want to communicate quality at first glance.

Spot UV: Subtle Contrast That Feels Modern

Spot UV involves applying a glossy varnish to selected parts of your artwork, usually on top of a matt laminated surface. The result is a striking contrast between shine and softness.

This finish is especially effective for minimalist designs, where a logo or key element is picked out with a gloss highlight. The effect is subtle yet highly tactile, encouraging people to pick up and interact with the print.

Embossing and Debossing: Texture That Creates Impact

Embossing raises parts of the design above the paper surface, while debossing presses them into the stock. Both techniques add real depth and character to printed materials.

These finishes are often used for logos, initials and decorative elements on luxury stationery, book covers and presentation folders. They work particularly well with thicker stocks and uncoated or textured papers.

Die-Cutting and Creative Shapes

Die-cutting allows printed materials to be cut into custom shapes rather than standard rectangles. This might be a shaped business card, a brochure with a windowed cover, or custom packaging with cut-out elements.

This finish is ideal for brands that want to express creativity and individuality and works especially well in industries such as retail, hospitality and events.

Choosing the Right Finish for Your Print

Not every printed piece needs a premium finish and that’s okay. The key is applying finishes strategically. Business cards, covers and high-impact marketing pieces benefit most from upgrades, while everyday flyers and inserts can stay simple to keep costs down.

CM Print Brighton can help you decide where finishes will add genuine value and where they’re unnecessary, ensuring your budget works as hard as possible.