Customizing a paper bag isn’t always just about printing a logo.Sometimes, it involves a carefully considered process—deciding on the size, choosing the paper type, selecting the printing method, determining the surface finish, and even picking the right handles.
Small choices can make a big difference in the look, feel, and customer experience of your packaging.
One of the most overlooked—but important—choices in custom paper bag design is whether or not to apply lamination.
If lamination is needed, the next question is: Which type should you choose? Glossy lamination, matte lamination, soft-touch lamination, or scratch-resistant lamination?
In this blog, we will provide you with a comprehensive analysis of everything related to paper bag lamination.
Table of Contents
What is the Paper Lamination?
Lamination is the process of applying a thin plastic film to the surface of printed paper. This is what gives laminated paper bags their added strength, durability, and a more refined appearance.
This process usually is used after printing process and is a widely used in printing products, such as paper bags, paper boxes, brochures, business cards, and so on.
There are four main types of lamination for packaging
- Glossy lamination (also called shiny lamination ): uses shiny film that makes the surface a bright and polished look.
- Matte lamination, sometimes called opaque lamination, features a non-glossy film that creates an elegant look.
- Soft-touch lamination, A premium lamination that feels incredibly smooth and velvety to the touch, adding a luxurious feel.
- Scratch-resistant lamination, A thicker, durable film that helps protect the surface from everyday wear and tear—great for high-use packaging.
Do Custom Paper Bags Have to Be Laminated?
Do paper bags need lamination? The answer isn’t always yes. Whether you should laminate depends on the type of paper you use.For a deeper look at paper types for making paper bags, check out our guide: 10 Essential Materials for Custom Paper Bags
When Lamination Is Required:
- C1S and C2S Coated Paper
These papers have smooth, glossy surfaces and excellent printing performance, but these two types of paper cracks easily when folded, so adding a layer of lamination helps protect the surface and makes the bag more durable. - Metallic Paper (Gold/Silver Cardboard)
This eye-catching paper has a reflective foil layer, but it gets scratches easily. A laminated layer—especially scratch-resistant film—prevents damage and keeps the surface looking flawless.
For these materials, lamination is not optional—it’s essential to ensure your bags look good and last.
When Lamination Is Optional:
If you want your paper bags to have a natural feel, stay eco-friendly, or keep things within budget, you might choose to skip the lamination.
Kraft paper bags with minimalist printing, for example, often look more authentic without a shiny coating.
If your Pacakging values natural textures, recyclability, or cost control, you may choose to skip lamination. Kraft paper bags with minimalist printing.
Glossy or Matte Lamination – Which One Should You Choose?
Once you decide to laminate, the next step is choosing between glossy and matte finishes. Both serve the same purpose—protecting the paper and improving durability—but they offer very different styles.
Let’s break it down:
1. Visual Impact
- Glossy lamination adds brightness and reflects light. Glossy paper bags make colors pop and graphics stand out, which is great for brands that want strong visual impact.
- Matte lamination gives a soft, refined finish. Matte paper bags create a calm, premium feel without glare, making them perfect for luxury branding.
2. Design Considerations
If you plan to add spot UV (a glossy print effect), you’ll need matte lamination as the base. The contrast between the matte background and shiny UV details creates a beautiful layered effect—ideal for high-end packaging.
3. Cost Factors
In general, glossy lamination is more cost-effective, especially for large orders. Matte lamination tends to be slightly more expensive .
Lamination: A Choice, Not a Rule
There is no one-size-fits-all answer to whether a paper bag needs lamination. It depends on the type of paper used and the brand image you want your packaging to reflect.
For certain materials—such as coated paper and metallic paper—lamination is essential to prevent cracking, protect the surface, and extend the lifespan of the bag.
However, for kraft paper, recycled paper, and other materials that emphasize a natural or eco-friendly aesthetic, skipping lamination can preserve the original texture of the paper.
Lamination is not necessary, but it’s a decision worth serious consideration.
At Better Package, we’re happy to offer expert advice and sampling support to help you decide whether lamination is the right choice for your paper bag project.
Contact Better Package today — let’s make your packaging stand out.
