Spot on With Spot UV

Looking for a distinctive look for your print materials? Spot UV printing might be the option for you. This method is one of the most popular because of its versatility, impact and low cost.

What is spot UV?

Spot UV is a high shiny finish added to an area of printed material. It is often noticed by the very reflective high shine it has when it catches the light and can make areas of your design really stand out.

This process utilises UV light to create a varnish that is applied to paper or card stock, often to coat colour-printed paper products, sealing in their colour, adding shine and protecting the printed surface underneath from moisture and other types of damage.

As soon as the ink is applied to the material, the spot UV is added on top, like a second layer of ink. This can either be done on the end of the printing line, within the same process of the job being printed or after on a separate machine.

It is recommended that you plan for this process with your print company in the early stages of the design process. Although this is not done at the design stage, it is a print process applied right at the end, after the printing but before most finishing services.

Spot UV is often added to a job along with a matte laminate, which enhance the shininess of the spot UV. Having a matt material, which obviously dulls the light, helps to bring out the vibrant reflectiveness of the varnish.

How can your business use spot UV?

Business cards, flyers and other heavier weight papers or card stocks are best combined with UV coating. Spot UV can be applied to the whole page, or just to certain areas, and has the potential to deepen and enhance the colour of the print. Using it in small areas can be very effective on a logo, photo or image.

Spot UV finish can grab attention and give your brand the appearance of premium, high-end and luxury. It can add impact to designs that are black and white, standing out beautifully against black backgrounds looking modern, fresh and elegant.

It is also a great option for enhancing patterns.

SOURCE: Imagine