Metallic inks contain a mixture of ink (typically unpigmented) and metal dust or flakes, which produces a shiny reflective appearance. Metallic inks require special handling at the printer so talk to your printer at the planning stage. Metallic inks show off best on coated paper but they can be used on uncoated paper for a more subtle—and sometimes dramatic—effect. Better results with metallics, especially on large solid areas, are achieved with two hits or two passes on press. Printers will often run metallics on a separate pass to avoid trapping problems. Metallics are always sealed with a varnish or aqueous coating to prevent tarnishing and scuffing. The use of coatings is for rub protection only, they do not make the metallic ink shinier.

Designers should avoid screening metallics, trapping metallics to a process color and overprinting a process color over a metallic. They should review an ink drawdown on the specified paper stock before the press check.

Designers and clients should be aware that metallic inks pose a greater environmental hazard, and the finished piece may not be recyclable. Therefore, specifying a metallic ink may not be appropriate for some companies and/or governments.