Celloglaze applies a thin plastic film over a printed sheet, protecting the surface from scuffing, moisture and fingerprints while changing the visual finish. It is the most common post-print coating in commercial printing. We apply celloglaze in-house at our Marrickville finishing department.
What is celloglaze
Celloglaze, also called celloglazing or film lamination, bonds a thin polypropylene film to the printed surface of a sheet using heat and pressure. The film adds a protective layer and changes the surface texture and reflectivity of the printed piece.
It is applied as a continuous roll-to-sheet process. The printed sheet passes through a laminating unit where the film is bonded under heat. The result is a smooth, sealed surface that resists wear.
Finish options
Four standard celloglaze finishes are available. Gloss produces a high-shine, reflective surface that intensifies colour saturation. Matt creates a flat, non-reflective finish with a smooth feel. Silk sits between gloss and matt with a subtle sheen. Soft-touch (also called velvet lamination) produces a rubbery, tactile surface that invites handling.
The choice of finish changes the perceived quality of the printed piece. Soft-touch celloglaze on a business card or book cover creates a premium tactile impression. Gloss celloglaze on a retail brochure makes colours pop.
When to use celloglaze
Celloglaze is applied to almost any printed piece that needs to withstand handling. Common applications include business cards, book covers, presentation folders, packaging, brochures, menus, POS displays and direct mail.
It is also a necessary preparation step for other embellishments. Spot UV is applied over a matt or silk celloglaze to create contrast. Digital foiling requires a celloglaze barrier between the base print and the foil toner layer.
Celloglaze versus lamination
In commercial printing, celloglaze and lamination refer to the same process: bonding a plastic film to a printed sheet. Lamination as a separate service typically refers to encapsulation (sealing both sides) or applying heavier-gauge film for durability. Celloglaze is single-sided and uses thinner film.
Design considerations
Celloglaze slightly shifts colour appearance. Gloss celloglaze deepens and saturates colours. Matt celloglaze reduces contrast slightly. If colour accuracy is critical, request a celloglazed proof before production.
Celloglaze adds approximately 15 to 20 microns of thickness per side. On heavy stocks used for packaging or covers, this additional thickness should be factored into structural tolerances.
How we produce celloglaze
Printed sheets pass through our roll-to-roll laminator. The celloglaze film is bonded under heat and pressure in a continuous feed. Sheets are then trimmed or sent to the next finishing stage (spot UV, foiling, die-cutting).
We celloglaze in-house, so turnaround is typically same-day or next-day after printing. No outsourcing delays.
Need a protective or decorative finish on your print job? Get in touch to discuss celloglaze options.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between matt and soft-touch celloglaze?
Matt is smooth and flat. Soft-touch has a rubbery, velvety texture that feels premium in the hand. Both are non-reflective. Soft-touch costs slightly more.
Does celloglaze protect against water?
It resists light moisture and prevents ink from smudging. It is not waterproof. For waterproof protection, heavier-gauge encapsulation lamination is more appropriate.
Can I write on a celloglazed surface?
Not easily. Most pens will not adhere to a celloglazed surface, particularly gloss. If a writable area is needed, leave that section uncelloglazed or use a matt finish which accepts some pen types.
Is celloglaze applied to both sides?
Typically one side only (the printed face). Both sides can be celloglazed if needed, for example on menus or documents that will be handled heavily.
Does celloglaze affect recycling?
The plastic film makes celloglazed paper harder to recycle through standard paper streams. If recyclability is critical, discuss coating alternatives with us at the quoting stage.