Varnishes are a clear, resinous liquid applied to printed surfaces to improve the appearance of the product. They can be either matte or dull finish. Varnishes also offer a level of protection, although it is not as protective as aqueous based coatings.

One advantage to varnishes is that they can be applied in spot areas to accent a particular photo or graphic on the printed sheet. Aqueous coatings, on the other hand, are applied overall to the sheet.

Varnishes are best applied to coated stocks. Uncoated stocks will soak the varnish into the paper so it's virtually invisible.