Question
What's the difference between coating and lamination on printed materials?
Answer
The core difference is what gets applied. Coating is a liquid layer applied directly to the printed surface, while lamination bonds a plastic film to the stock for a tougher, more protective result.
| Coating | Lamination | |
|---|---|---|
| What it is | Liquid layer (aqueous or UV) | Bonded plastic film |
| Protection | Light | Durable, water-resistant |
| Dry time | Dries fast | Bonded during finishing |
| Feel | Thin surface layer | Substantial, premium |
Among lamination types, gloss film boosts color saturation while matte film softens the look. Overall, lamination lasts longer and feels more substantial than coating alone.
Ready to order?
Get your gloss laminated business cards printed at 4OVER4
