Spotlight on Print Finishes That Make You Feel Something

How Spot UV and Other Specialist Techniques Help Your Print Stand Out

We live in a fast, digital-first world where most marketing vanishes with a swipe. But print? Print has staying power. And the secret to unforgettable print isn’t just what you say - it’s how it feels.

That’s where specialist print finishes come in.

Whether it’s a velvety brochure that makes someone pause, or a business card with a glossy logo you can feel, the right finish gives your printed materials an edge that digital simply can’t match.

At Soar Valley Press, we love helping clients use specialist finishes to turn something simple into something wow. Here’s a quick guide to the most popular tactile techniques - and how to choose the one that’s right for your brand.

🖐 Spot UV: Subtle Shine, Seriously Effective

What is it?

Spot UV is a glossy varnish applied only to specific parts of your design - think logos, titles, or patterns. It creates a contrast between shiny and matte surfaces for a finish that catches the light and the eye.

Why it works:

• Highlights key areas without overpowering your design

• Adds a premium look and feel

• Makes your logo or headline pop instantly

  
  

Best used on:

Business cards, high-end brochures, presentation folders, gift vouchers

✨ Try Raised Spot UV for an extra tactile effect - the gloss literally lifts off the page.

✨ Foiling: Add a Touch of Metallic Luxury

What is it?

Foil is a thin layer of metallic colour (most often gold or silver) applied using heat and pressure. It creates a beautiful shimmer and instantly elevates your design.

Why it works:

• Communicates luxury and exclusivity

• Available in a range of colours - from rose gold to holographic

• Looks stunning on dark stocks or soft-touch laminate

Best used on:

Luxury brochures, certificates, invitations, business cards, premium packaging

🖤 Soft-Touch Lamination: A Velvet-Like Finish That Gets Noticed

What is it?

This is a super-smooth, matte laminate that gives your print a velvety texture - and makes people want to hold onto it.

Why it works:

• Instantly adds a sense of quality

• Pairs perfectly with Spot UV for a “touch and contrast” effect

• Durable and scuff-resistant too

Best used on:

Brochures, presentation folders, business cards, packaging sleeves

🌾 Textured Stocks: Natural Texture, Beautiful Simplicity

What is it?

Textured paper stocks add physical depth and tactile appeal to your print — from subtle linen finishes to heavily grained, uncoated papers.

Why it works:

• Feels beautiful in the hand - even without extra embellishment

• Suggests quality, craftsmanship, and a more personal touch

• Ideal for artisan brands, sustainable messaging, or designs that lean into simplicity

Best used on:

Wedding stationery, thank-you cards, menus, invitations, business cards, eco-conscious brochures

Bonus: Textured stocks also work brilliantly for clients looking to avoid heavy lamination or plastic coatings while still creating something memorable and distinct.

Choosing the Right Specialist Finish

A great print finish isn’t just about looking good - it’s about feeling right for your brand.

Here’s what to think about:

• Audience – What kind of impression are you trying to make? Bold and creative? Understated and high-end?

• Brand personality – Choose finishes that reflect your values. Soft-touch says premium. Spot UV says attention to detail. Textured stock says artisan, ethical, or heartfelt.

• Budget – You don’t need to print thousands to make it worthwhile. These finishes work brilliantly on short runs of high-impact items.

If you’re unsure where to start, don’t worry. We’re always happy to walk you through the options, show you samples, and help you choose a finish that fits both your brand and your budget.

Let’s Create Print That Feels as Good as It Looks

At Soar Valley Press, we don’t just press ‘print’. We help you create something memorable.

From glossy, tactile logos to textured papers that spark curiosity, we’ve got the tools, finishes and know-how to make your print feel just right. And it all happens in-house, so you get quality and speed with zero faff.

📞 Give us a call or

📩 Get in touch for advice, samples, or a quote

Or better still, pop in for a cuppa and feel the finishes for yourself - our showroom is full of inspiration.