Emma Davis, 4OVER4 print production voice (illustration)
Emma Davis Print Production Specialist at 4OVER4.COM

Emma is our prepress and print production voice, built from the knowledge of our production team, with over 20 years in printing.

Question

What does "silk" mean on a printed card?

Answer

Silk on a printed card refers to a laminate applied to both sides after printing, not the paper itself. The result is a smooth, velvety surface that sits right between matte and gloss.

  • Feel: soft and satiny to the touch, more refined than a plain matte.
  • Look: a subtle sheen rather than the mirror shine of full gloss.
  • Durability: the film adds tear and moisture resistance and helps resist fingerprints.
  • Good pairing: silk is a popular base for spot UV accents, since the glossy detail pops against the soft background.

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