Spot UV is a technique used in printing to create a glossy and protective layer on specific areas of a printed material. This process involves applying a special polymer resin to the desired areas of the print, and then exposing it to ultraviolet (UV) light to cure and harden the resin, resulting in a shiny and durable finish. Spot UV printing can be used to enhance the appearance and highlight certain elements of a design, such as logos, text, or images, creating a striking visual effect that stands out on the printed material.
basic steps involved in applying Spot UV
Spot UV, or spot gloss, is a printing technique where a clear, shiny coating is applied to specific areas of a printed piece. It creates a glossy, raised effect that makes those areas stand out. Here are the basic steps involved in applying Spot UV:
- Design Preparation: The first step is to create a design file that clearly indicates where the Spot UV will be applied. This is usually done by adding a separate layer in the design file for the Spot UV areas.
- Printing the Base: The main design is printed first, typically using offset or digital printing methods. This creates the base layer of the printed piece.
- Applying the UV Coating: After the base layer is printed, the Spot UV coating is applied. This is done using a separate printing press or machine that applies the clear coating only to the areas designated for Spot UV.
- Curing the Coating: The Spot UV coating is then cured or dried using ultraviolet (UV) light. This process hardens the coating and gives it the glossy, raised effect.
- Inspection and Finishing: Once the Spot UV is applied and cured, the printed piece is inspected for quality. It may then go through additional finishing processes, such as cutting, folding, or binding, depending on the final product.
- Packaging and Delivery: The finished printed pieces are then packaged and delivered to the client or distribution center.
Spot UV can add a luxurious and eye-catching element to printed materials, making them more visually appealing and memorable. It is often used on items like business cards, brochures, packaging, and invitations to create a high-end look and feel.
Summary
Spot UV is a popular technique used in printing to create a distinctive look, making it ideal for promotional materials like brochures, presentation folders, business cards, and book covers. It enhances printed designs by applying a glossy and protective layer to specific areas of a print material. This process uses polymer resin and ultraviolet light to create a hardened and shiny finish. Spot UV can be applied over inked images or directly to the paper substrate to create the design by itself, without the use of any ink. When applied directly to the paper, Spot UV offers the best contrast when used over a darker substrate, such as high-gloss Spot UV over a dark, matte stock.
If you have any questions about printing, feel free to reach out to us at 718-928-6888 or submit our quote request form. We’re here to assist you in any way we can.
Take care!
Jeff @ New York Printing Center
