When preparing for an exhibition, every detail matters – including the print finish you choose. While bold colours and creative layouts catch the eye, the right finish can enhance how your graphics are viewed and remembered. In exhibition printing, matte and gloss are the two most common options. Each offers a distinct look and feel: matte is subtle and sophisticated, while gloss is vibrant and reflective. Whether you’re designing shell scheme panels or banners, understanding the pros and cons of each finish helps ensure your display suits your brand and makes a lasting impression.
What Are Print Finishes?
Print finishes are special coatings applied to printed materials to change their appearance and feel. They not only protect the print but also enhance how it looks under different lighting and angles. In exhibition printing, finishes are very important because exhibition spaces often have bright overhead lighting, spotlights, and a lot of foot traffic.
There are several types of finishes available, such as satin, silk, UV coating, and lamination. However, matte and gloss are the most popular choices, especially for shell scheme panels and other high-impact displays.
Gloss Finish: The Bold and Bright Choice
A gloss finish adds a shiny, reflective layer to your print. This type of finish enhances colours and gives them a more vibrant, polished look. It makes images look sharp, clear, and lively. Because of this, gloss finishes are often used when brands want to make a strong first impression.
Best for:
- Product launches
- Technology and fashion brands
- Photo-heavy designs
- Promotional posters and pull-up banners
Advantages of Gloss Finish:
- Vivid colours: Gloss makes colours appear brighter and more eye-catching.
- Professional look: The shine gives a premium and modern appearance.
- Smooth texture: Gloss finishes feel sleek and are ideal for high-impact visuals.
Drawbacks of Gloss Finish:
- Glare: Under exhibition lighting, the reflective surface can cause glare, which might make text hard to read.
- Fingerprints and smudges: Gloss can show marks easily, especially on larger panels that people might touch.
- Too shiny for some designs: If your display includes a lot of text or soft colours, gloss can overpower the content.
Example Scenario: Imagine a new tech startup launching a wearable device. Their stand is covered in large glossy prints showing close-up images of the product. The colours pop, and the gloss draws attention from across the hall. However, under strong lighting, the text on some panels becomes a bit harder to read.
Matte Finish: The Understated Professional
A matte finish offers a non-reflective surface that feels soft and smooth. It has a more muted look compared to gloss but is often seen as elegant and refined. This finish works well in professional settings where readability and subtlety matter.
Best for:
- Luxury or heritage brands
- Informational displays
- Art-based or minimalist designs
- Panels with lots of text
Advantages of Matte Finish:
- No glare: Matte does not reflect light, making it ideal for brightly lit exhibition halls.
- Readable: Text appears clear and is easy to read from different angles.
- Premium feel: The soft texture and appearance give a more sophisticated impression.
- Resistant to fingerprints: Matte doesn’t show marks as easily as gloss.
Drawbacks of Matte Finish:
- Subtle colours: Colours may appear slightly less vibrant than they would on gloss.
- Less shiny impact: If your design relies on visual punch, matte may not have the same wow factor as gloss.
Example Scenario: A heritage skincare brand is exhibiting at a health and wellness show. Their booth is calm and elegant, with shell scheme panels printed with a matte finish. The natural colours look soft, and the display is easy to read under the venue’s lights.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Feature | Gloss Finish | Matte Finish |
| Colour vibrancy | Very high | Moderate |
| Glare/reflection | High | Low |
| Readability in light | Lower (glare issues) | Excellent |
| Durability | Shows smudges | More resistant |
| Ideal for | Images, bold branding | Text, premium feel |
Choosing the Right Finish for Your Exhibition Graphics
When deciding between matte and gloss, think about the purpose of your display and how you want your audience to react. Here are some key things to consider:
- Lighting at the venue: If the space has strong spotlights or overhead lighting, matte is the better choice to avoid glare.
- Viewing distance: Gloss stands out from afar, making it great for long-distance visibility. Matte works better for close-up viewing.
- Content type: For text-heavy panels or technical data, matte is easier on the eyes. For high-impact visuals and photography, gloss adds drama.
- Brand personality: Modern and trendy brands often choose gloss. Professional, natural, or classic brands may prefer matte.
Tip: Some companies combine both finishes—for example, using gloss on large images and matte on text panels. This creates a balanced display that catches attention while staying easy to read.
Sustainability and Print Finishes
If sustainability is important to your brand, it’s worth discussing eco-friendly finishing options with your exhibition printing provider. Some gloss or matte finishes are available with environmentally friendly coatings or recycled materials. Water-based or UV-cured finishes are often better for the environment compared to plastic laminates.
Choosing a sustainable option not only supports the planet but also shows your audience that your business values responsibility.
Final Thoughts
Both matte and gloss finishes offer unique advantages, and the best choice depends on your design, goals, and exhibition environment. Whether you’re printing shell scheme panels, banners, or signage, it’s important to consider how your audience will engage with your display. The right print finish can enhance your brand’s message and create a more memorable experience. Not sure which finish suits your needs? Ask for print samples and speak to professionals who can advise based on your brand and layout. For expert guidance and premium exhibition printing, Board Printing Company is ready to help you stand out.
