The Most Popular Pillow Box Finishes That Boost Product Appeal
Pillow boxes are compact but cute for a range of product packaging needs. It’s thoughtfully built to leave a lasting impression on the customers while being pocket-friendly. But the pillow boxes are incomplete without the finishing, and that is something which adds a flair of elegance. Here in this blog, we’ll explore the most reliable finishes that enhance the packaging appeal. So, read on to know more about it.
Role of Finishes in Product Packaging
Although finishing is one of the last steps of the custom packaging process. But it’s one of the decisive phases that determines the final outlook of the box or a bag. From subtle matter to glossy finish, each determines the hands-on appeal of the packaging. While it either complements the brand’s theme or tells a distinctive story in itself.
If you start counting on the roles of finishing, there are dozens of them, but below, I’ve mentioned the ones that count a lot, such as:
Speaks Brand Identity:
The finish a business chooses directly communicates its brand and accordingly engages its customer base. Enchanting shiny finishes fit well for luxury brands, while the subtle and minimalistic finishes are more sustainable for eco-conscious brands that promote sustainability.
Improves Consumer Experience:
With hundreds of purchases and countless unboxings, no one remembers the packaging of a product. But with a unique finish on the surface of the pillow boxes, the user feels special as it smartly delights the customer.
Aesthetic Enhancement:
First of all, finishing is all about the presentation of a box. Especially when it comes to custom-made pillow boxes, they demand something exceptional to stand out and offer a top-notch design.
Product Protection:
While being outstanding in presentation, the finishes also act as a barrier against moisture, scratches, and UV light, and ensure that the print quality of the product isn’t compromised at any phase. That’s why with finished packaging boxes, their colours remain vibrant even after a long shelf life.
Stand out the Product:
Hitting someone at a subconscious level isn’t easy in the distracting era. But with alluring finishes, one can make their product go beyond showcasing purposes. While engaging with the end-level consumer and sticking to their memory.
Top Protective Finishes That Enhance the Presentation & Resilience

Since multiple finishing types are ideal for pillow boxes, below I’ve first explained the ones that feature the protection of the outer surface while being presentable.
Matte Finish:
A common finish option that has smooth and non-reflective characteristics for a sophisticated look. For the brand that wants to showcase elegance and a decent vibe in their packaging can opt for this as a dependable option that seamlessly blends for most products.
Gloss Finish:
For the brand who prioritize the color vibrancy and a shiny and reflective surface on the pillow packaging, consider the glass finish. When light hits this finish, it reflects the spectrum and distinctively outshines the colors.
Soft-Touch Coating:
For those who are concerned about the first impression. This luxurious material is ideal for those businesses that features velvet-like texture to upgrade the hand-on feel of the products. That’s why it’s a must opt for giftable and special items.
Anti-Smudge Finish:
Since most of the finishes are susceptible to smudges once the packaging is grabbed with naked hands. These exclusive finishes ensure no fingerprints are developed on the surface of the packaging. While the product is displayed and delivered, it’s just packed right away.
Luxurious Finishing Options for Pillow Boxes
Aside from the protection finishes, here are some of the exquisite finishes that not only enhance the hand’s appeal but also deliver an exceptional presentation from the start. Some of the available options for these are:
- Foil Stamping: Also known as hot stamping, this finish is famous for developing a metallic, gold, silver, or even rose gold foiling for branding elements such as logos, slogans, or patterns. That’s why it’s the top choice for luxury brands that sell jewelry or other expensive products.
- Spot UV Treatment: The application of this finishing technique is something that makes it distinctive from the rest of the options. Because it’s applied to specific areas, it showcases either a glossy or matte background to highlight the branding elements.
- Embossing/Debossing: Another functional technique to develop a 3D effect, either by raising (embossing) or sunken (debossing) for certain branding elements. This tactile finish can be felt by the hands while standing as a top option in its category.
- Holographic Coating: For the products that demand a multi-colored finish, the holographic finish is the ideal option, reflecting the rainbow effect upon tilting the packaging. Due to its light-reflective nature, this stands out as the best option for tech products that demand a fancy packaging solution.
The Bottom Line

All in all, we hope you’re equipped with the right knowledge on the top finishes that change the appeal of the pillow packaging. Since each has its own pros and cons, selecting the ideal one for the first time may be tricky for you. That’s why we recommend that you consult with a reliable vendor such as OXO Packaging and get tailored recommendations. You can reach us by calling at (510) 500-9533 or writing to sales@oxopackaging.com.
A non-finished pillow box delivers a raw appeal and may work for on-the-go products such as soaps, candies, sweets, etc. A finished one is ideal for custom packaging demands and delivers an exclusive feel.
Compared to a simple pillow box, a finished one may cost some extra. But when it comes to its packaging, ROI brands should opt for it for better presentation and added appeal.
Yes, you can opt for one or more finishes for a more enhanced outlook of a pillow box. Yet, ensure to consult with a packaging expert as they’ll better recommend after understanding your requirements.
Well, whether the finishing is harmful to the environment or not. It depends on the ingredients to develop it. For instance, plastic content is bad for the environment as they don’t decompose naturally. While soil-soluble options are kind to the planet, as they leave no footprint behind.

