Elevate Your Printing and Packaging with Aqueous Coating

Whether in the real or printing and packaging world, first impression matters. The finish of your printed piece can enhance the perceived quality of your product, protect your material, and affect how people interact with it. 

That’s where aqueous coating comes in. It is a water-based solution that adds both functionality and visual appeal to your product packaging. Let’s explore when you should use aqueous coating and explore its different types to boost your brand recognition. 

When Should You Coat?

Coating is not a one-size-fits-all decision. You should consider coating your print or packaging when:
 

• You want to protect the surface from fingerprints, smudges, or scratches.
   
• Your project is being shipped or handled frequently.
   
• You want a sleek visual appeal like matte, glossy, or even a soft touch finish.
   
• You want to extend the life of marketing materials like brochures, folders, or product boxes.
   
• Your design includes heavy ink coverage that may rub off without a protective layer. 

Tidbit:If your product needs both visual sophistication and durability, it’s time to consider aqueous coating. 

What is Aqueous Coating (AQ)?

Aqueous coating is a fast-drying, water-based protective layer applied to printed materials during the printing process. It is usually applied inline on the press, which means there is no need for a separate step, which saves time and cost. 

This eco-friendly coating enhances the appearance and texture of the print all while offering resistance to wear and tear. Because it uses water as a base, it is also safer for the environment and dries quickly, making it ideal for high-speed production. 

Advantages of Aqueous Coatings

AQ coating is a favorite in the printing and packaging industry due to these exceptional features:

• Fast-drying: Speeds up production with no additional curing required.
   
• Eco-friendly: Water-based and low in VOCs (volatile organic compounds).
   
• Cost-effective: Cheaper than many alternative coatings.
   
• Durable: Offers scratch and scuff resistance for better product preservation.
   
• Print-enhancing: Makes colors pop and finishes smoother to the touch.
   
• Food-safe: Commonly used in food packaging due to its non-toxic nature. 

Explore Types of Aqueous Coating

Aqueous coating comes in multiple types, each serving a unique purpose. Let’s dive into popular finishes that aqueous coating offer:

1. Matte Aqueous Coating

Matte aqueous coating creates a smooth, non-glossy surface that feels elegant and high-end. It is perfect for brands aiming for a minimalist or luxury aesthetic. Plus, it helps reduce glare, making it easier to read text. This coating is best for book covers, cosmetic packaging, and premium brochures.

1. Gloss Aqueous Coating

Gloss aqueous coating is your go-to if you want your print to shine. Gloss AQ creates a reflective surface that enhances color vibrancy and draws attention. Different brands usually apply this coating for product packaging, flyers, and retail displays that need pop and punch. 

1. Satin Aqueous Coating

Satin aqueous coating is a balanced finish that falls between gloss and matte. This type of coating offers a moderate shine and good durability. It's often used in luxury packaging. It is used on business cards, menus, brochures, book covers, and packaging for a wide range of products.
 

1. Dry-erase AQ Coating

If you need something functional, then look nowhere rather than dry erase AQ coating. Dry erase AQ coating creates a surface where you can write with markers and wipe it off easily. Think of it like calendars, planners, or whiteboard-like marketing pieces. It is best for educational tools, office planners, or reusable charts. 

1. Soft Touch Aqueous Coating

Soft touch aqueous coating delivers a velvety, suede-like feel. It adds a sensory dimension to your packaging which is particularly powerful in luxury branding. You can use this coating on high-end packaging, invitation cards, and premium catalogs. 

What is the Aqueous Coating Process?

Aqueous coating is simple, timesaving, consistent, and highly efficient. Here is step-by-step guide for its coating process:

1. Inline Application: After printing, the coating is applied directly on the press using a dedicated coating unit.
2. Water-Based Formula: The coating spreads evenly over the printed surface.
    
3. Drying: It goes through a heated air-drying system which quickly evaporates the water.
    
4. Finishing Touch: Once dried, the coating is set leaving behind a durable and clean finish. 

What is UV Coating?
 

Apart from aqueous coating, another type “UV Coating” is also popular in the packaging industry. Usually, the question arises whether aqueous coating or UV coating performs best for printed products. Firstly, explore UV coating.

UV coating is a clear, glossy liquid which is applied to printed materials. And then dried with ultraviolet light. It enhances the appearance and longevity of printed items like packaging, business cards, and book covers. 

Which One Is Better: Aqueous or UV Coating?

Aqueous and UV coatings are both used in printing and packaging to enhance durability and appearance. But they both differ in their compositions, drying methods, and properties. Here is a quick comparison of both coating types which you can assess to choose the right one:

So, which one is better? If you need super durability or a high-gloss mirror effect, UV coating may be ideal. But for everyday packaging, eco-conscious printing or a balance between visual appeal and protection, aqueous coating is a more versatile and budget-friendly choice.

Where to Get Premium Quality AQ Coating?

Not all AQ coatings are created equal. To get top-tier quality, look for printing and packaging suppliers that use high-speed inline presses with dedicated AQ units. Or offer multiple AQ finish types including gloss, matte, soft touch. 

Also, ensure your chosen custom packaging supplier provides eco-certified and food-safe options having a portfolio of successful commercial projects using AQ coating. The Customize Boxes meet this criterion fully. For brands looking to elevate packaging appeal while staying eco-conscious with AQ coating, The Customize Boxes is your go-to option. Work closely with us to tailor finishes based on your brands’ style, and budget.