Think about the last printed piece you kept. Maybe it was an invitation with raised lettering, or packaging that shimmered with metallic foil. Chances are, it wasn’t the message alone that made it memorable—it was the finish. Specialty print has that effect. It turns an ordinary brochure, card, or package into something worth holding onto.

Every day we’re inundated with fast-scrolling screens, so it feels refreshing to pause and notice that print still offers something unique: physical presence. When enhanced with specialty finishes, print transforms from a simple piece of paper into a memorable experience.

Why Specialty Print Works

Unlike standard printing, specialty finishes engage more than just your eyes—they invite touch, spark curiosity, and even trigger emotion. A smooth matte surface paired with a glossy highlight, a logo pressed into the paper, or metallic foil that catches the light—all of these create a sensory moment.

That tactile quality makes people slow down. They notice the detail, feel the texture, and connect more deeply with the message. Research shows that printed materials with unique finishes are more likely to be remembered and kept. For businesses, that’s not just a nice bonus—it’s a competitive edge.

Popular Specialty Print Techniques

Here are some of the most effective ways to elevate your print projects:

• Foil Stamping: Metallic, holographic, or coloured foil accents that shine and add a luxurious feel.
• Embossing & Debossing: Raised or pressed designs that add depth and sophistication.
• Spot UV Coating: Glossy highlights on specific areas like logos or headlines, creating striking contrast against a matte surface.
• Aqueous & Soft: Touch Coating – Smooth, protective finishes that enhance colour and provide a premium, velvety feel.

Each of these techniques communicates quality and attention to detail. They signal that your brand values creativity, craftsmanship, and lasting impact.

When to Use Specialty Print

Specialty finishes work best for projects that need to leave a strong impression.

Consider them for:

• Business cards that serve as a handshake in print.
• Event invitations that feel like keepsakes.
• Packaging that signals luxury before it’s even opened.
• Marketing pieces that say: this isn’t ordinary, and neither are we.

Making Your Creative Unforgettable

Great design deserves more than flat ink on paper. Specialty print ensures your creative work stands out in a crowded marketplace and leaves people with something they can truly feel. It transforms an idea into an experience—one that your audience will remember long after they’ve put it down.

So the next time you’re planning a print project, ask yourself: how can I make this not just seen, but felt? The answer may be as simple as choosing the right specialty finish.