When you are planning your next print communication project, don't forget to think about a few key project elements:

• Who will be using the print piece?
• How will the piece be used?
• Where will the piece be used?
• How long does the piece need to last?

If you can answer these questions - then you are ready to make an educated decision about your print protection needs.  As you can imagine, there are quite a few options out there - one of the most effective and low-cost options is aqueous coating.

What is Aqueous Coating?

Aqueous Coating Applications

• Direct Mail - Aqueous coatings can be used to protect printed pieces as they deliver through the USPS.  Equipped printers are able to inkjet and UV variable print directly on top of coated pieces making aqueous a popular selection for direct mail.  
• Magazine and Report covers - Publications that are subject to rough or frequent handling benefit greatly from a protective coating applied to the cover.
• Heavy Black Ink Coverage - Rich, dark ink areas tend to be more susceptible to showing fingerprints, applying aqueous to these areas can protect against this.
• Metallic inks - Applying aqueous coating will protect metallic ink from air and prevent it from tarnishing.
• Other Effects - When used with other print coatings (varnish & UV coatings), additional visual and protective print enhancements can be achieved.
  
  

Aqueous Coating vs Varnish

Aqueous coating has a handful of advantages over varnish worth noting:

• Higher abrasion and rub resistance
• Shinier and smoother finish
• Can be written on or overprinted by inkjet printing
• Will not yellow when applied over areas with white space
• Faster dry time
• Environmentally friendly - no VOCs
  
  

Considerations

• Aqueous can be used as a spot coating, but it is difficult to achieve the same precision as can be achieved with varnish. 
• Like UV coatings, when used with select PMS colors like warm red and reflex blue - there is a chance of chemical burning which can alter the appearance of your project by changing color or adding unwanted bleed or burn out.  Talk to a reputable printer to address any concerns you may have.
  
  

Paper Selection

Aqueous coating is best used with coated paper - the surface of coated paper ensures that the coating stays on top of the paper and goes on smoothly.  We recommend that you use a minimum 80# text weight or heavier to be sure the paper doesn't curl or wrinkle from the liquid coating.

While aqueous coating isn't the only print coating available, the protection and enhancement benefits it delivers may align perfectly with your project.