Folder lamination
Three finishes — matt, soft touch and gloss — each with a distinctly different look, feel and use case.
Lamination is one of the most popular finishing options for printed presentation folders. Applying a thin protective film to the printed sheet strengthens the folder, prevents the print from cracking along creases and folds, and gives the finished product a more professional appearance.
Matt lamination
A matt film applied to the surface of the sheet, producing an understated, non-reflective finish.
Matt lamination reduces glare and minimises reflections, which lets darker colours and detailed designs read clearly under any lighting. It's a versatile, neutral finish that works well across most industries — from corporate brochures and sales kits to legal and professional services.
Matt is also the most forgiving of the three when it comes to fingerprints and light handling marks, making it a sensible choice for folders that will pass through many hands.
Soft touch lamination
A textured matt-based film with a velvet-like feel — soft and smooth to the touch.
Soft touch is the premium option in our range. The tactile finish adds a sensory element that gloss and matt simply can't match — recipients tend to handle soft touch folders for longer, which is exactly what you want for a high-value pitch or sales presentation. It pairs especially well with spot UV, foil blocking and embossing, where the contrast between the soft matt surface and a glossy or metallic accent creates real visual impact.
One thing to be aware of: soft touch shows fingerprints, scratches and oils more readily than the other finishes, particularly on dark colours. It's not the right choice for folders that will be heavily handled or stored loose — but for high-end brand presentations, luxury product launches and premium service offerings, nothing else feels quite the same.
Gloss lamination
A high-shine glossy film applied to the surface of the sheet, producing a sharp, reflective finish.
Gloss lamination makes colours appear richer, more vibrant and more saturated. Photography in particular benefits — images look sharper and more punchy under gloss than under any other finish. It's also the most durable of the three: gloss is the most scratch-resistant and easiest to wipe clean, which makes it well-suited to folders that will see plenty of use.
Gloss is the right choice for bold, image-heavy designs, retail and consumer-facing brands, and any application where vibrancy and durability matter more than understated elegance.
Compare matt, soft touch & gloss
How the three finishes line up across the things people compare most often.
| Feature | Matt | Soft touch | Gloss |
|---|---|---|---|
| Finish | Subtle, non-reflective | Velvety, premium feel | Shiny, vibrant |
| Best for | Professional, versatile use | Luxury, high-end pitches | Bold, image-led designs |
| Colour vibrancy | Muted | Muted | Highest |
| Durability | Good | Moderate | Best |
| Scratch resistance | Moderate | Lower | Best |
| Fingerprint visibility | Low | High (especially on dark colours) | Moderate |
| Pairs with spot UV / foil / embossing | Well | Excellent | Limited |
| Price tier | Standard | Premium | Standard |
Frequently asked questions
Feel the difference
in person
We send free sample packs anywhere in the UK, so you can compare matt against soft touch, see how gloss reads in person, and pick what fits your brand.