Surface Effects Commonly Used in Packaging Printing

In the modern packaging industry, surface effects play a pivotal role in creating a powerful first impression on consumers. From glossy UV coatings and refined sand-textured finishes to luxurious metallic foils and intricate embossing details, each effect delivers a unique visual and tactile experience that enhances the product’s appeal.

At Newlifepack, we invite you to explore the most popular surface finishing effects in packaging printing and discover how they help elevate your product presentation, making it stand out and captivate attention in the marketplace.

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DISPLAY CATEGORIES

1. Lamination
2. Foil Stamping & Metallic Knockout
3. Embossing & 3D Embossing
4. Textured Embossing & Refractive Embossing
5. UV Coating & Varnishing
6. Metalized Film Lamination
7. Die-Cutting & Window Patching

1. Lamination

Lamination (Cán Màng | 贴膜) is one of the most widely used surface finishing techniques in paper packaging printing. This process applies a thin plastic film — typically BOPP, PET, or Nylon — that is pre-coated with a hot melt adhesive on one side, and then bonded to the printed surface under heat and high pressure.

The laminated film serves multiple purposes: it protects the printed surface from scratches, moisture, and dust, enhances mechanical strength and durability, and elevates the overall appearance and tactile quality of the packaging.

🗂️ Classification of Films by Base Material

• • BOPP (Biaxially Oriented Polypropylene): Most common and cost-effective option; offers adjustable gloss or matte finishes, good moisture resistance, and lightweight properties. Lower heat resistance compared to PET; may deform under high temperatures.
  • PET (Polyethylene Terephthalate): Excellent strength, heat resistance, dimensional stability, and rigidity — ideal for packaging requiring high precision. Higher cost; more difficult to process, especially with thicker films.
  • Nylon (PA / Polyamide): Superior abrasion resistance, flexibility, and tensile strength; suitable for packaging that demands impact resistance. Higher production cost and more complex processing compared to BOPP and PET.
  • Specialty Films: Multi-layer constructions designed to improve barrier properties, scratch resistance, or provide decorative effects. Complex structure; requires precise control of lamination temperature and pressure.

🗂️ Classification of Films by Surface Effect

• • Gloss (Bóng / 亮光 / 高光): High-gloss, mirror-like surface with strong light reflection; enhances color depth, saturation, and delivers a luxurious, modern look.
  • Matte (Nhám mờ / 哑光 / 无光): Non-reflective surface that reduces glare, improves text legibility, and conveys a refined, premium feel.
  • Satin / Silky (Satanh / Lụa / 丝光 / 缎面): Smooth, silky surface with soft and even light reflection — a balanced effect between gloss and matte.
  • Anti-Scratch (Trống trầy / 耐刮涂层 / 防刮涂层): Hard-coated surface that resists scratches during processing, transport, and storage; ideal for premium packaging requiring high durability.
  • Anti-Fingerprint (Chống vân tay / 防指纹涂层): Nano-coated surface that repels oil and fingerprints, maintaining a clean and consistent look over time.
  • Soft-Touch / Velvet (Nhung / 柔触涂层 / 天鹅绒质感): Smooth, warm, and velvety texture that offers a luxurious tactile experience; widely used for premium gift boxes, cosmetics, and spirits packaging.

2. Foil Stamping & Metalized Printing

2.1. Foil Stamping

Foil Stamping (Ép Kim | 烫金) is a post-print finishing technique that uses heat and pressure to transfer a thin metallic foil onto the paper surface. The process requires a heated metal die that is pressed against the printed substrate together with a layer of foil. Under heat and pressure, the adhesive layer on the foil is activated, allowing the metallic layer to bond firmly to the surface.

Foil stamping creates a striking metallic effect with high reflectivity, making it ideal for highlighting visual elements such as logos, brand names, titles, or special decorative details. Common foil colors include gold, silver, copper, red, green, and a variety of specialty hues.

This technique delivers crisp, highly reflective metallic finishes that add depth, luxury, and visual impact to packaging. It significantly enhances the perceived value of the product, reinforces brand accents, and brings a premium look and feel to printed materials.

However, foil stamping requires dedicated equipment and a custom-made metal die for each design, resulting in longer setup times and higher fixed costs. These factors reduce flexibility for design changes, limit personalization options, and make the process less suitable for small-quantity orders or projects that require rapid turnaround.

2.2. Metallic Knockout

Metallic Knockout is the visual effect created by white ink underprinting on metalize paper. This is a modern printing method increasingly used in the premium packaging segment, including pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, dietary supplements, and technology products.

The technique leverages a metallic substrate to produce a metallic sheen through carefully applied layers of white underprint ink. The white underprint layer in this technique acts as a “metallic light control mesh,” determining how much light from the metallic base is reflected toward the viewer.

By precisely controlling the thickness and density of the white underprint, three distinct effect zones can be achieved:

3. Embossing & 3D Embossing

3.1. Embossing / Debossing

Embossing (Dập nổi | 压凸) and Debossing (Dập chìm | 压凹) are post-printing techniques used to create raised or recessed details on paper surfaces. The process involves pressing the printed sheet between two dies — a male mold and a female mold, or between a die and a resilient rubber counterplate. Under the combined effects of pressure and heat, the paper fibers are reshaped according to the die’s design, forming raised or indented patterns. This technique enhances visual appeal, provides a tactile sensation, and significantly increases the perceived value of packaging.

At Newlifepack, Embossing / Debossing is performed using two main methods:

• Flatbed Embossing. This method uses an automatic die-cutting and embossing machine, where the sheet-fed material is pressed between male and female dies on a flatbed press. High pressure (optionally combined with heat) ensures precise deformation of the paper fibers, producing sharp and well-defined raised or recessed effects. This method offers high accuracy and deeper relief, making it ideal for products that require refined and detailed finishing.

• Rotary Embossing. This technique is performed on an automatic texture rolling machine. The material—either in roll or sheet form—passes through the gap between two rotating cylinders: one engraved with the design and the other serving as a counter-roll. Through continuous rotational pressure, the pattern is evenly transferred across the surface. This method provides high-speed production suitable for large-volume manufacturing, though the embossed depth is shallower and less detailed compared to flatbed embossing.

Quick Comparison: Flatbed Embossing vs. Rotary Embossing

3.2. 3D Embossing

Unlike traditional embossing that creates only single-layer relief, 3D Embossing (Dập nổi 3D | 立体压凸) on Chipboard is an advanced technique that produces multi-level raised effects with remarkable depth and dimensional clarity. The result is a vivid, luxurious, and sculptural surface — as if the image were intricately carved into the material.

At Newlifepack, this technique is performed using specialized hydraulic embossing machines capable of generating high and stable pressure. The metal die set, custom-made according to each design, includes a male mold and a female mold, precisely aligned by a hydraulic positioning system. During the process, the chipboard sheet is pressed between the two dies under controlled pressure and temperature, allowing the image to rise significantly without cracking or damaging the paper surface.

3D Embossing is typically applied to premium rigid box covers, calendar covers, art prints, or large display items. Its strong visual and tactile appeal makes it a signature finishing choice for luxury gift packaging and high-end products, despite the higher mold cost and more complex operation compared to standard embossing.

4. Textured Embossing & Refractive Embossing

4.1. Textured Embossing

Textured Embossing (Cán vân | 纹理压凸) is a technique used to create fine textured lines or patterns on the paper surface, imitating natural materials such as paper fibers, fabric weaves, or leather grains. This process delivers a refined, organic appearance reminiscent of art paper, adding tactile depth and sophistication to the design.

The effect enhances both the visual and sensory qualities of the product, giving it a luxurious and handcrafted feel — an ideal choice for packaging designs that emphasize texture, craftsmanship, and premium aesthetics.

4.2. Refractive Embossing

Refractive Embossing (Chiết quang | 折光压纹) is a technique that creates micro-optical patterns on the printed surface or on a post-print coating layer. These patterns generate light-reflecting or light-diffusing effects such as halo lines, radiating beams, or fish-scale textures. The patterns shift in color and reflection depending on the viewing angle, producing a high-tech, modern visual effect while also enhancing the product’s anti-counterfeiting capability.

Although Textured Embossing and Refractive Embossing differ in aesthetic intent and visual outcome, both rely on the mechanical principle of embossing. During the process, the paper or film passes between two rollers — one fitted with an engraved metal pattern (male roller) and the other acting as a counter roller (female roller) or a resilient rubber surface.

As the material passes through the nip under heat and pressure, the engraved design is transferred onto the surface, creating either decorative textures or distinctive optical refraction effects. This technique is widely applied in premium packaging, security packaging, and art prints that demand high visual value and strong brand identity.

5. UV Coating & Varnishing

UV Coating / Varnishing (Phủ UV / Vecni | UV / 清漆涂层) is the process of applying a thin protective layer to the printed surface, primarily to safeguard the ink, enhance mechanical durability, and elevate the visual appeal of paper packaging or commercial prints.

• Varnishing. A traditional coating that can be gloss, matte, or satin. It helps protect the ink layer from minor scratches, improves ink adhesion, and prepares the surface for subsequent finishing processes.

• UV Coating. A coating cured by ultraviolet light, producing a high-gloss, durable, and scratch-resistant finish. It delivers a striking visual effect and can be applied as flood UV (full surface) or spot UV (selective application) to highlight specific elements such as logos, patterns, or text.

Depending on the desired aesthetic outcome, cost, and protection level, designers and print technicians can flexibly combine Varnish and UV Coating. This strategic use of surface finishing not only enhances the visual impact but also strengthens brand presence and perceived product value.

🗂️ Classification Coating by Coating Type

🗂️ Classification Coating by Surface Effect

• • Gloss (Bóng / 亮光 / 高光): Creates a highly reflective surface that enhances print colors, depth, and saturation. Commonly used in varnish, UV coating, or film lamination.
  • Matte (Mờ / 哑光 / 无光): Provides a non-reflective surface with soft light diffusion, reducing glare and improving readability; ideal for a refined, understated look.
  • Satin / Silky (Satanh / Lụa / 丝光 / 缎面): A mid-sheen finish between gloss and matte — offering a smooth, soft texture with subtle reflection. Often used for premium, elegant packaging.
  • Sand Texture (Cát / 砂面 / 颗粒感涂层): Produces a textured, grainy surface that increases friction and reduces glare; typically achieved with micro-particle additives or texture coatings.
  • Soft-Touch / Velvet (Nhung / 柔触 / 天鹅绒质感): Creates a smooth, velvety surface that feels like suede or soft leather; achieved through polymer-based or aqueous soft coatings.
  • Pearlescent / Iridescent (Ngọc trai / Xà cừ / 珠光 / 珠贝光 / 彩虹光): Contains mica or special pigments that reflect light to create shimmering or iridescent effects; used for luxurious or artistic finishes.
  • Glitter / Sparkle / Metallic Flake (Kim tuyến / Lấp lánh / 亮片 / 闪粉 / 金属光点): Adds glitter or metallic flakes for sparkling or reflective effects, often used in decorative or festive packaging.

Quick Comparison: Spot UV Coating vs. UV Drip-off Coating

Quick Comparison: Drip-off Varnish vs. UV Drip-off Coating vs. Hybrid UV Drip-off Coating

6. Metalized Film Lamination

Metalized Film is a composite material consisting of an ultra-thin metallic layer (usually aluminum) deposited onto a polymer substrate such as PET or BOPP through a vacuum metallization process. This metallic layer imparts a distinctive reflective sheen while enhancing key barrier properties — including moisture resistance, oxidation protection, and light blocking.

Metalized Film Lamination (Ghép màng metalize | 金属化薄膜复合) refers to the process of bonding the metalized film onto paper substrates (such as Couche, Ivory, or Kraft) using adhesive or thermal lamination. The result is a metalized paper with a premium metallic finish that not only enhances visual appeal but also strengthens the protective performance of packaging.

After lamination, the metalized paper can be further processed through offset printing and various post-press finishing techniques such as film lamination, foil stamping, embossing, or UV coating to achieve both functional durability and striking aesthetic effects

🗂️ Classification of Metalized Films by Base Material

• • BOPP: The most common substrate in packaging; lightweight, cost-effective, with adjustable gloss or matte levels; offers excellent moisture resistance. Lower heat resistance than PET; may shrink or wrinkle under high temperature; not suitable for direct thermal sealing.
  • PET: Superior mechanical strength, high thermal resistance, excellent rigidity, and dimensional stability; delivers a sharp, mirror-like metallic reflection. Higher cost compared to BOPP; difficult to die-cut or glue when thick; requires precision cutting equipment.
  • Nylon (PA): Highly flexible and durable; excellent gas and abrasion resistance; ideal for premium food or vacuum-sealed packaging. Expensive; requires complex processing and lamination techniques.
  • CPP: Soft, heat-resistant, and suitable for heat sealing; often used as the inner layer in multi-layer laminated packaging. Less glossy than PET or BOPP; easily scratched without a protective top layer.

🗂️ Classification of Metalized Films by Surface Effect

• • Silver (Bạc / 镜面银膜): Mirror-like reflection with pure silver tone; enhances metallic brightness and premium appearance; most commonly used in packaging and metallized paper.
  • Gold (Vàng / 金属金膜): Reflects a rich gold metallic tone; conveys luxury and sophistication; widely used for wine, gift, and cosmetic packaging.
  • Holographic (Cầu vồng / 彩虹全息膜): Displays rainbow-like shifting colors depending on viewing angle; creates dynamic movement and strong visual impact.
  • Starburst / Radiant Burst (Sao nổ / 星爆全息膜): Centralized radiating light effect that draws focus; ideal for gift boxes or promotional packaging.
  • Diamond / Mosaic (Kim cương / Khảm / 钻石纹 / 马赛克膜): Multi-directional reflective facets create sparkling, prismatic effects; commonly used in premium festive boxes.
  • Lenticular / Bubble / Dome (Thấu kính 3D / Bong bóng / Gương cầu / 三维透镜 / 凸面膜): Produces 3D optical depth or convex mirror-like highlights; changes dynamically with light angle.
  • Crystal / Ice (Tinh thể / Băng tuyết / 冰晶 / 霜纹膜): Subtle frosted or crystalline reflection; soft metallic shimmer suitable for high-end packaging.
  • Brushed / Hairline (Chải cào / Lông tóc / 拉丝纹膜): Fine parallel metallic lines resembling brushed steel; delivers a modern, industrial aesthetic.
  • Grid / Cross Hatch (Vân lưới / 网格纹膜): Fine grid texture with uniform light reflection; provides a subtle technical appearance.
  • Wave / Aurora (Sóng / Cực quang / 光波 / 极光膜): Gentle, flowing light-wave effect that shifts smoothly with viewing angle; soft, elegant appearance.

7. Die-cutting & Window Patching

7.1. Die-cutting

Die-Cutting (Bế khuôn / 模切) is a converting technique that cuts, scores, or creases paperboard or sheet materials into predetermined shapes using a cutting die. It is a critical stage in paper packaging production, enabling the formation of box structures and custom design elements with precision.

In principle, the printed sheet is pressed between the cutting die and the counter plate under high pressure. The blades of the die either cut through the material or create fold lines (creasing) following the exact outline of the design, ensuring clean edges and consistent accuracy across all products.

Common die-cutting applications:

• Through Cutting: Cuts completely through the material to form outer shapes, sleeves, or box components; separates the usable part from the waste.
• Kiss Cutting: Cuts partially through the top layer, allowing easy peel-off for decals or labels.
• Perforation: Creates a series of small cuts or “tear lines” for easy detachment of stickers, coupons, or security seals.
• Creasing: Forms precise fold lines to help boxes assemble cleanly without cracking.
• Cutouts: Includes windows, thumb cuts, tongue locks, hang holes, rope holes, or handle slots.
• Inserts & Structural Parts: Includes neck holders, dividers, inner trays, or base inserts that support or secure products inside the box.

7.2. Window Patching

Window Patching (Dán cửa sổ / 窗口贴膜) is a widely used finishing technique in folding carton packaging production. After the carton surface is die-cut to create an opening (window), a transparent or semi-transparent film — typically PET, PVC, or PP — is applied to the inner side of the board at that position. The film creates a see-through area, allowing consumers to view the product inside without opening the box.

Key Benefits and Applications:

• Enhanced shelf appeal: Creates a visual focal point that attracts attention and encourages purchase decisions.
• Display and protection combined: Keeps the packaging sealed against dust and damage while allowing product visibility.
• Improved perceived value: The visible portion builds trust, while the hidden part evokes curiosity and anticipation.
• Brand reinforcement: Integrates printed design with the actual product view, strengthening brand recognition and positioning.

Newlifepack – Surface Finishing Expert

With 20 years of experience and a state-of-the-art production system, Newlifepack confidently masters nearly all post-print surface finishing techniques. We provide comprehensive, precise, and creative solutions that enhance the visual appeal, physical durability, and sensory value of every product.

At Newlifepack, we believe that true distinction lies in the smallest details. With refined aesthetic insight and solid technical expertise, we transform creative ideas into premium, fully finished products that embody elegance, craftsmanship, and unique brand identity.

Specialized in Design, Printing & Production

▸ Tet gift boxes, Tet packaging boxes
▸ Mid-Autumn mooncake boxes
▸ Premium gift boxes, corporate gift boxes, signature gift boxes
▸ Packaging boxes for premium products
▸ Bird’s nest boxes, supplement packaging boxes
▸ Liquor boxes, imported wine boxes, premium beverage boxes
▸ Ceramic boxes, tea set boxes, feng shui figurine boxes, large wealth vase boxes
▸ Rigid boxes (chipboard boxes)
▸ Collapsible rigid boxes
▸ Metalize boxes
▸ Corrugated boxes (carton boxes)
▸ Folding cartons (folding boxes)
▸ Other printed products: roll labels, anti-counterfeit labels, paper trays, paper bags, POSM

MOQ: Rigid boxes 500–1,000, Corrugated boxes 1,000–2,000, Folding cartons >5,000

Expertise in Surface Effects

▸ Lamination: gloss – matte
▸ Foil stamping – Metallic knockout
▸ Embossing – Debossing
▸ Textured embossing – Refractive embossing
▸ 3D embossing – Sculpted foil stamping
▸ UV coating: gloss – matte – spot – drip-off
▸ Die-cutting – window patching

Vietnam Paper Packaging Manufacturer (since 2008)
Certifications: ISO 9001:2015, ISO 14001:2015, GMI, GSV, FSC, SMETA

Industrial Design · Printing · Manufacturing
▸ Tet gift boxes, mooncake boxes, gift boxes, packaging boxes, custom packaging
▸ MOQ: rigid boxes 500–1,000, corrugated boxes 1,000–2,000, folding cartons >5,000

Core strengths: Rigid Boxes & Metalized Boxes
▸ High-quality offset printing & metalized printing on KOMORI Lithrone presses – USD 2 million investment
▸ Fully integrated rigid box (chipboard box) production line, no outsourcing
▸ Perfect metalized surface achieved through roll-to-roll lamination with pressure bonding and thermal curing
▸ Signature effects: metallic knockout, drip-off / sand-like, 3D embossing, sculpted foil stamping

Consultation · Quotation · Orders
68 Tran Van Cham Street, Cu Chi Commune, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
+84 28 3790 2768 | +84 828 44 9999 (+zalo)
box@newlifepack.com (EN / 中文)
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