Elevate your materials with specialist finishing
At AOK Printers, we understand that the right finishing touches can transform a good print into something truly exceptional. From selecting the perfect paper stock to applying stunning finishes, our goal is to help you create printed materials that stand out and leave a lasting impression.
Spot UV varnishes
This technique applies a glossy varnish to specific areas, highlighting images or text and creating a striking contrast. Spot UV works particularly well on darker backgrounds, adding depth and visual interest.
Lamination
Available in gloss, matte, silk or satin finishes, lamination applies a thin layer of plastic to protect and enhance your prints. It increases durability and gives your materials a polished look.
Embossing and debossing
These techniques create raised or recessed designs on the paper surface. Embossing gives a tactile dimension to your prints, while debossing provides a subtle, sophisticated touch.
Pearlescent and iridescent inks
These inks add a shimmering effect that changes colour depending on the angle of light, creating a dynamic and luxurious look for your prints.
Die cutting
Create intricate, custom shapes by using die cutting, allowing your printed materials to stand out with creative cut-outs.
Foiling
A popular finishing technique, foiling applies metallic foil to your print, resulting in a shiny, eye-catching effect that elevates the design.
Holographic foiling
Similar to standard foiling, holographic foiling creates a rainbow-like effect that adds security and flair, commonly seen on event tickets and specialty items.
Metallic inks/powders
These inks are designed for laser printing and create a metallic finish by allowing particles to rise to the surface, adding a luxurious touch to your designs.
Choosing your paper stock
Selecting the right paper is crucial for achieving the desired look and feel for your printed materials.
Here are some key factors to keep in mind:
Coated vs Uncoated. Coated papers have a polished, sealed surface, providing a smooth finish that enhances image clarity and detail. Uncoated papers can offer a more natural feel to your finished product. They provide a softer, more muted effect, with options ranging from smooth to textured finishes.
Paper finish: The finish of the paper affects its texture and reflectivity. Matt finishes have no sheen, ideal for deep, rich colours, while gloss finishes create a shiny, high-contrast look. Satin or silk finishes provide a smooth texture between matte and gloss.
Paper weight: The weight of the paper, measured in grams per square metre (gsm), affects both durability and feel. Standard office paper typically ranges from 60 to 100 gsm, while heavier stocks (230-350 gsm) are often used for professional prints, ensuring your materials feel substantial and high-quality.
Opacity: Opacity refers to how transparent the paper is, impacting the visibility of print through the back. Higher opacity papers ensure that prints remain crisp and clear without any bleed-through, while lower opacity options might show some of the reverse printing.
Brightness: Measured on a scale of 1 to 100, brightness affects the vibrancy and readability of your print. For optimal contrast, especially for photographs and artwork, papers with brightness ratings in the 90s are recommended.
Colour: Paper is available in a range of hues, from warm to bright white. Warm white papers feature creamy tones ideal for softer images, while bright white papers are preferred for their cooler tones, providing a sharper contrast for photographs. Natural white offers a balanced option, enhancing colour richness and depth.
Hear from
our clients
We are immensely proud of every project that leaves our premises, and client satisfaction is at the heart of everything we do. See for yourself how our customers feel about our work.
Get in touch
Ready to elevate your print game?
Contact us today! Call us at 01689 834701 or fill in our the form to tell us about your project.
