In the stamping industry, finishes are essential, as they can transform the visual and tactile experience. They are a component that provides useful information about food and other consumer goods.
In this regard, at Adhesivas Ibi, with our experience and specialized resources, we attest that labels are the first point of contact between the consumer and the product, in addition to being able to enhance its appeal.
Why is the finish as important as the design of a label?
A product’s labeling must be able to add value to the product it’s attached to. It’s like its calling card, and where the magic of being chosen happens. To achieve this, its seductive weapons are shape, color, and feel.
Since a label requires a multitude of details, the finishes take on great importance, whether embossed or non-embossed. The idea is to convey the right message professionally.
The power of touch: how a texture influences the purchasing decision
Texture is important, as it can influence any customer’s purchasing decision. This is because the sense of touch can generate an emotional connection, whether through dry heat printing or other techniques.
Furthermore, the texture of the label is relevant. It “expresses” to the reader how well it was made, and if so, that sensation is transferred to the quality of the product itself.
Differentiation on the shelf: standing out from the competition
Another important aspect is that when a shelf is saturated with options, the human eye looks for certain points of interest as a reference. Therefore, embossed labels with a glossy or metallic finish make a difference.
Protection and durability: extend the life of the label
Laser thermo-engraving used on labels, or any other labeling technique with a high finish, offers protection and durability to the item. In this sense, varnishes and laminates act as a shield.
Hot stamping: luxury and metallic shine
Stamping is synonymous with quality. This technique adds a touch of sophistication and exclusivity to products, as well as luxury and metallic shine.
What exactly is stamping and how is it applied?
It consists of a transfer printing process. During this process, a hot mold with the design is applied, which presses onto a metallic film placed on top of the label.
Thanks to the heat and pressure, the foil adheres to the label’s surface, providing a premium finish.
What is the difference between stamping and metallic ink printing?
Basically, metallic ink is a traditional type of process where reflective particles are added to the surface. It has a duller appearance with limited shine.
In contrast, foil stamping involves applying a metal foil that, using pressure and heat, adheres the foil to the substrate.
Beyond gold and silver: the range of holographic colors and effects
Through the labeling process, finishes can look stunning and even carry the ASME quality seal. This means a wide range of colors, such as bronze tones, blues, reds, metallic greens, and more.
This allows the finishes to align with the brand’s identity to add a touch of authenticity.
Recommended applications: Wines, spirits, high-end cosmetics and gourmet products
This labeling technique can be used in a variety of applications. For example, in the labeling of reserve wines, spirits, and cavas, high-end cosmetics, and gourmet products, where it is crucial to convey luxury and exclusivity.
Relief: depth and tactile elegance
Embossing is also important and adds a layer of physical dimension to the label. This, combined with texture and design, gives it presence and importance in heat-seal printing.
What is the difference between traditional embossing and 3D screen embossing?
Traditional embossing uses a cliché that allows the paper to deform upward. However, in the 3D screen printing technique, a thick, transparent layer of a special varnish is applied to shape the substrate.
Thanks to the screen printing strategy, high relief can be observed on labels. This adds aesthetic appeal and improves the viewing experience.
What effect does a glossy varnish create on a matte background?
Glossy varnish on labels, whether embossed or not, adds contrast. This creates a play of light and textures that stands out at first glance.
On the other hand, the glossy area stands out from the matte surface. Therefore, it often draws attention to that area, which could be a logo, pattern, or text.
What is embossed varnish and what is it used for?
With this component, a thin layer can be applied to seal the ink and influence its external appearance. This allows for the creation of embossed labels.
Practical applications: simulate water drops, create rough textures or highlight a logo
Practical applications for labels with high relief or a certain level of relief include simulating water droplets, creating rough textures, or highlighting a logo. This can generate greater sensory value.
On the other hand, they can also work on parts of the label design to give the packaging a premium tactile finish.
Laminated and laminated: maximum protection with a finishing touch
With these techniques, it’s possible to apply a fairly thin plastic film to the label. This offers several advantages after stamping.
When is it essential to laminate a label?
The laminating and shrink-wrapping technique is used on products exposed to moisture to protect the information printed on labels using heat-engraving or any other printing technique.
For example, it is often seen in cold drinks, personal items placed in the shower, etc.
Sensory differences: gloss finish vs. matte vs. soft-touch (silk touch)
Embossed labels with a glossy finish intensify tones and are also able to reflect light. This allows for a vibrant presentation.
On the other hand, matte finishes provide elegance and modernity for embossed labels. However, they absorb light, so luminosity is not expected.
However, if a soft-touch finish is applied, the texture will be silky, with a matte appearance. This is an expression of luxury to touch and feel.
How does lamination protect against scratches, moisture and grease?
Thanks to the plastic film applied to the label using dry heat-seal or other printing, the surface is protected from scratches. It is also resistant to moisture and grease.
Recommended for: Frequently used products, hygiene, cleaning and cosmetics
Laminating and plastic coatings have the ability to protect products from moisture. For this very reason, they are often used on components used in bathrooms or kitchens.
This process is also commonly seen on cosmetics or frequently used products.
How to combine finishes for a spectacular result
It’s possible to combine the same label with different finishes for different areas. For example, glossy embossing for the logo, gold foil stamping for the informational text, and a touch of silkscreen embossing for the brand name.
What finish is best for your label? We’ll advise you.
Do you want to have the best labels on your products that are visually appealing to customers? Don’t worry, at Adhesivas Ibi, thanks to our experience and valuable resources, we’ll advise you.
Preguntas frecuentes
Porque la forma, el color y el tacto influyen en la elección del producto y en cómo se percibe su calidad; el acabado transmite el mensaje con profesionalidad.
El tacto genera conexión emocional: una textura cuidada comunica elaboración y refuerza la percepción de calidad del producto.
En estantes saturados, relieves, brillos y efectos metálicos atraen la mirada y facilitan el recuerdo de marca.
Añade lujo y brillo metálico mediante transferencia de un foil con calor y presión, logrando un acabado claramente premium.
La tinta metálica incorpora partículas reflectantes con brillo limitado; el stamping transfiere una lámina metálica que aporta un efecto más intenso.
En vinos de reserva, destilados, cavas, cosmética de alta gama y productos gourmet, cuando se busca exclusividad.
El relieve añade dimensión física; combinado con textura y diseño, incrementa presencia y elegancia.
El tradicional deforma el papel con un cliché; el serigráfico 3D deposita un barniz grueso y transparente que crea alto relieve con gran efecto visual.
Genera contraste y juego de luces: resalta zonas como logotipos, patrones o textos frente a la base mate.
