NEW ERA PRINT SOLUTIONS · MISSISSAUGA
Choose the surface feel of your print. OPP film lamination bonds a thin film to suitable stock for gloss, matte or a velvety soft touch finish.
THE PROCESS, UP CLOSE
See the film-lamination demonstration, then compare gloss, matte and soft-touch surfaces below. A video shows the process; a physical sample helps you judge the feel.
TAKE A CLOSER LOOK
The same teal and coral design shows three surfaces: gloss on the left, matte in the centre and soft touch on the right. Gloss reflects more light, matte softens the reflections, and soft touch adds a velvety feel that a photo can only suggest.
Illustrative design concept, not a print proof.
Design direction
Choose a reflective surface when vivid colour and a polished appearance support the design. Consider how lighting affects any large dark areas.
What to send us
Review a gloss sample with similar artwork and confirm whether one or both sides need film.
Design direction
Choose matte when you prefer less reflection. Matte and soft touch are different films, even when they look similar on screen.
What to send us
Ask for the exact film option and check its appearance on the intended stock.
Design direction
Choose soft touch for a velvety surface on a piece people will handle. Compare a physical sample to judge the feel.
What to send us
Tell us about any foil, gloss, scoring or assembly so the combined specification can be reviewed.
Use this guide to plan your idea. We’ll check the paper, artwork and finishing details before confirming the job.
Whether you can write on the film depends on the finish and pen. Tell us where the piece needs handwriting and test that combination before ordering.
No. Handling, material and film choice affect wear and visible marks. Discuss the intended use and ask for an appropriate sample before selecting the surface.
BEFORE YOU PRINT
Gloss, matte and soft touch each look and feel different. Compare them with the way your piece will be used in mind.
Gloss provides a reflective surface. Consider lighting and reading angle if the piece includes substantial text, and compare a printed sample for dark or photo-heavy designs.
Matte or silk lamination reduces the reflective look. It can suit a clean brand layout, but the appearance of dark colours and handling marks should still be assessed on a sample.
Soft touch creates a tactile surface for cards, covers and folders. Confirm compatibility before adding foil or UV, and plan the complete sequence of treatments together.
A shiny surface that brings a bold, reflective look to colour and imagery.
A low-shine surface with less glare than gloss.
A velvety surface often used for premium cards, folders, covers and packaging.
Lamination is a bonded film. UV coating is a cured liquid treatment. Neither automatically makes a piece waterproof or suitable for every use. Confirm one- or two-sided film, writing areas, folds and subsequent finishing with NEPS.
No. Soft touch is a film finish applied to a printed surface. An uncoated stock gets its feel from the paper itself, without that laminated layer.
Writing behaviour depends on the film and pen. Do not assume an ordinary ballpoint will work; keep a suitable untreated writing area or ask to test the intended combination.
Some laminated pieces can be scored and folded, but stock, film and fold direction need review. Confirm the construction before preparing artwork or adding other finishes.
Tell us what you’re making, how it will be used and whether anyone needs to write on it. Include the size, quantity, paper and any other finishes. We can help you compare gloss, matte and soft touch samples in Mississauga before settling on the specification. Shipping is available across Canada and takes additional time after production.
Need help with the design? Explore graphic design services.