Enhance Your Book’s Appeal by Sandy Gould
A Quick Guide to Cover Laminates and Coatings
Choosing the right coating for your book is crucial to its marketing and sales success. Different laminates and coatings offer unique visual and tactile experiences, influencing a buyer’s perception and the book’s overall appeal. In this guide, Sandy from Color House Graphics explores various coating options, helping you make an informed decision for your next project.
Marketing and Sales Impact
The coating you choose can profoundly impact how people perceive your book. Glossy finishes are ideal for visually striking books like coffee table editions, where vibrant colors and a fine sheen stand out. On the other hand, soft-touch matte coatings offer a sophisticated, glare-free look that is well-suited for scholarly works and novels while enhancing the feel of the book.
Cost Considerations
When selecting a coating for your book cover, it’s crucial to weigh the aesthetic benefits against the financial implications. Some coatings are cheap but don’t last long, while others are expensive and durable. Your coating choice should reflect your budget and the market you’re targeting.
Below are some common laminate and coating options that CHG offers, as well as a brief description.
Gloss Film Lamination: This option is moderately priced. It offers excellent color vibrancy and protection, making it a popular choice for high-impact visual books.
Soft-Touch Matte Film Lamination: Typically, more expensive than gloss due to its luxurious feel and sophisticated appearance, soft-touch matte is valued in genres where holding the book adds to the reader’s enjoyment.
Spot Dull/Gloss Combo: This specialized technique, combining both matte and gloss finishes, can be costlier due to the complexity of the application process. It’s ideal for making some cover elements stand out from the background.
Spot UV Coating: While significantly enhancing durability and aesthetics, spot UV is more expensive than standard coatings. The cost increases with the precision required for applying the coating to specific cover areas.
Aqueous Coating: As a water-based option, aqueous coating is environmentally friendly and moderately priced. It protects against fingerprints and scuffs, making it an excellent middle ground between cost and functionality.
Varnish: This is usually the least expensive coating option but offers minimal protection and enhancement. Varnish might be a good choice for books not intended for long-term use or where budget constraints are tight.
By carefully considering these factors, you can select a cover coating that enhances your book’s aesthetic and keeps your project within financial boundaries.
It is important to remember how the book will be used, the visual impact, and the cost when placing an order. If you have any questions, I’d be happy to help guide you to a coating that will make your book shine. You can contact Sandy Gould at sandy@colorhousegraphics.com or learn more about Color House Graphic’s services at www.colorhousegraphics.com.