When it comes to packaging, first impressions matter big time. A well-designed magnetic box can elevate your product's presentation and enhance your brand's image. But did you know that the finish of your magnetic box plays a crucial role in its overall appeal? Whether you're aiming for a sophisticated touch, a vibrant pop of colour, or a rustic charm, the finish you choose can set the tone for your business.
In this guide, we’ll explore three popular choices - matt, laminated, and ribbed - to help you select the best option for your packaging needs.
But first of all, what are magnetic boxes? Often used as hampers, these boxes have magnets embedded in the body and lid, and close with a satisfying snap! They have a half flap so it's nice and obvious where to open, with a ribbon tab for extra ease and elegance. They'll arrive at your door as flat packs (simply fold out the sides and peel off the tabs to stick them together), and at Tiny Box Company they're made from high-quality 40% recycled boxboard which has a weight of 1200gsm (gsm = grams per square metre). Even better? These magnetic boxes are recyclable when the magnets and ribbon tabs have been removed.
These luxury, sustainable boxes therefore make great choices for gift packaging, hampers, and more, so let's dive into what finishes are available too!
Understanding the different finishes available for magnetic boxes
Choosing the right finish for your magnetic box is vital for both aesthetics and functionality. Here’s just a quick overview of the three finishes we’ll discuss:
Matt finish - offers a non-reflective, smooth surface that simply exudes sophistication.
Laminated finish - features a glossy, vibrant surface that protects and enhances graphics.
Ribbed finish - provides a textured surface with a unique tactile quality.
Each finish brings its own character to the table, so let’s dive deeper into what makes them special!
Matt finish: Understated elegance
The matte finish is all about that effortlessly smooth, non-reflective look that just exudes modern sophistication. With its soft, muted vibe, it’s perfect for brands that love a minimalist or luxury feel without the need for flash. Darker colours and subtle designs look particularly stunning in matt, adding a refined touch that whispers quality. Plus, it’s a practical choice, too - matt finishes are naturally more resistant to scratches and fingerprints than glossy ones, meaning they’re easy to keep looking pristine! This finish is a favourite for high-end cosmetics, sleek tech products, and luxury gift boxes - basically, any packaging that wants to make an understated but still elegant statement.
Laminated finish: Bold, beautiful, and built to last
A laminated finish is where bold meets practical. This finish adds a protective layer that not only ramps up durability but also enhances the look. Available in glossy or matt, laminated finishes offer two distinct styles: glossy lamination brings a striking, high-shine effect that makes colours pop and designs shine, while matt lamination dials it down for a more polished, refined appeal. Beyond looks, lamination also protects against moisture, dust, and scuffs, making it a breeze to clean and ideal for boxes that’ll be handled a lot. Perfect for high-end packaging, laminated finishes give any product both the visual impact and the resilience it deserves.
Ribbed finish: Texture that stands out
The ribbed finish takes things up a notch with a unique, textured surface that’s as satisfying to touch as it is to look at. Featuring fine lines or more pronounced ridges, it adds a stylish, tactile dimension that’s hard to forget. Not only does this texture provide extra grip and structure, but it also helps hide minor scuffs and fingerprints, keeping the box looking fresh. Ribbed finishes bring a distinct, luxurious feel to gift boxes, premium beverage packaging, or any product that benefits from a bit of texture. Simply put, it’s an ideal choice for brands looking to create a memorable, bold impression!
More factors to consider when choosing your finish
Each finish offers a unique style and functionality: the matt finish is ideal for subtle elegance, the laminated finish provides both protection and a polished look, and the ribbed finish offers a luxurious, tactile experience. Choosing the right finish depends on the impression you want to create - that first impression is after all very important in packaging!
Choosing the right finish for your magnetic box is all about aligning your packaging with your brand and products. What message do you wish to convey? Sophistication? Luxury? Playfulness? And what colour do you want your box to be? Matt finishes reduce reflections, so colours like sage green, rose quartz pink, and lilac look smooth and even - with the lack of shine making them appear softer and ultra sophisticated. Why not add a foil printed logo or design for extra luxury?
Bold, vibrant colours look great on a matt or glossy laminated magnetic gift box - making this the perfect choice if you've got a full colour design you want to pop on there with digital printing. And looking for a luxury black box, say for a bottle of wine? A ribbed finish could be the way to go - especially as the textured surface is less prone to visible marks and scratches. Read more here on the many uses of magnetic boxes, from gift cards to hampers. [link to first article]
Elevate your packaging
Selecting the perfect finish for your magnetic boxes can significantly impact how your product is perceived. Each option - matt, laminated, and ribbed - offers distinct benefits that can enhance your brand's image and resonate with your audience. Of course there's different sizes to choose from as well depending on what your products need - check out our blog here on how to choose the perfect size box from a whole host of different styles, so you find just the right one for your gift.
Ready to elevate your magnetic box designs? Get in touch with Tiny Box Company today to explore our range of finish options and discover how we can help you create packaging that stands out and tells your brand's story. Remember, the right finish is more than just a design choice; it’s a vital part of your brand's identity!